SAYING "I LOVE YOU" FOR THE ONE HUNDREDTH TIME

A series of journeys.....

THE ROAD WELL TRAVELED

.....as seen through my eyes!



By: Jacqueline E. Hughes

We can all agree by now that life is an amazing journey filled with wanderlust, new beginnings, healthy lifestyle alternatives, brilliant stories, and interesting people lining the entire path. And, if we are fortunate enough, some will join us walking hand-in-hand every step of the way.

Today I am celebrating my one hundredth post on Moving On.....2015.  I am thinking how I'd like to gather each story in my arms and go with a huge 'Group Hug' right now, briefly pat myself on the back, and then tell myself to regroup and go create, at least, one hundred more!

Each time I post a story, I am sharing a part of me with all of you. It may be about a fleeting moment in time well spent chasing a dream or, in many cases, fulfilling a lifelong goal. I am opinionated and informative at the same time and serve to seek out your own thought-provoking ideas while encouraging stimulating discussions. No matter what the particular topic may be each week, every essay, collection, book review, conversation, and story is my way of telling the world just how much I love being a part of this process called LIFE....




In celebration of this particular milestone, I choose to thank several entities that have directed me along my own journey and honor each with a few short paragraphs of appreciation. If you have been following 'the ride' with me, you will recognize them. If you've recently joined my personal excursion into life's abundance and joy....you will delight in the emotions that have fueled my work and exposed my passions. The greatest of these is Love.

SANTA HAS VISITED IN THE NIGHT

Portage, Michigan: December 25, 2013

This morning, Christmas morning, has been blessed with feather-like snowflakes dancing around just beyond the mullioned window and resembling tiny ballerinas drifting down from the clouds. I have made my way downstairs a bit early so that I can prepare and place my breakfast quiche into the hot oven to bake. I am hoping the delicate aroma will tempt everyone downstairs soon...as if the prospect of opening Santa's goodies from beneath the tree isn't enticement enough.

ADRIAN O'CONNOR

Doolin, County Clare, Ireland: Adrian O'Connor, October, 2013

Adrian stood and told us he would be right back, as if, suddenly, remembering the kettle was on. He returned within moments carrying a small set of pipes that appeared as old and craggy as our dear friend. Okay, so I could barely make out his face four songs later due to the tears freely flowing from my eyes. I knew, as sure as the Irish sun was shining down upon us, as precious as the memory of a grandchild's kiss, as blissful as an invigorating walk through a green-splashed forest on a Sunday morning.....we were in the midst of a power so great and strong, it was bigger than all of us. Yet, it was all of us combined. Love isn't complicated. You just have to be aware of it with every breath you take. My 'tears of happiness' equaled nothing short of pure peace and solace in my life. Thank you my friend.....

MY FAVORITE PICTURE I
HAVE TAKEN OF LA TOUR EIFFEL

Paris, France: Any day of the year!!

So many remarkable stories fill my mind when I look at the amazing buildings of Paris! The flavors and tastes of Paris all enriched by her sumptuous beauty…just waiting to be unwrapped over and over again by ‘fresh eyes’ and open hearts! To stand on the balcony overlooking the quintessential icon of Paris, La Tour Eiffel, as I kiss the one I love so deeply, excites me beyond belief! It would be a privilege to call this place ‘our home,’ even for a moment in time, and immerse ourselves within the power and beauty of the most delicious city in the world! My heart has already arrived….

SAILING SHIPS OF WHITE LIGHT

Orlando, Florida: Joe Bonamassa Concert, December 19, 2014

Color creates moods; color changes moods. Color evokes memories and, in turn, produces responses from those memories. Yet, color is timeless. Color is ageless. It can be yesterday, today, or tomorrow and ebb and flow offering irregular outlines that shift like the seas with the tide.

Soft, powdery blues mixed with powerful beams of bright, white light spotlighted Joe and turned the stage into an extraterrestrial-like encounter as this eclectic mixture of talented musicians delivered an intricately textured, unplugged experience. At one point, the white illumination resembled sailing ships carrying the music across an imaginary sea and back to Europe, the place which lent its vintage flair to this acoustic blues set.

Nostalgia: February 5, 2015

Nostalgia, my old friend....  Why must I always find you lurking in the vast recesses of my mind, waiting, waiting for my vulnerability to emerge? Wrap me in your rose-tinted veil so that I may see all that I long for once more. Seduce me with your false promises and drown this present feeling of 'hope lost' so that I may smile and feel whole once again, if only for a short while.

EVA IBBOTSON

"I want to live like music sounds.": About author Eva Ibbotson, January 22, 2015

My journey into the life of this interesting female author began because of a quote online that struck me as one of the best 'writing prompts' I'd seen in a long while. Spoken by her character, Ruth, in the novel, The Morning Gift, Eva Ibbotson wrote, "I want to live like music sounds." There's something quite magical in this statement. How does this interesting quote affect you? Are you conjuring up all sorts of pictures in your head right now as I am? From the four most recognized notes (Big Bang Introduction) of Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 to the haunting dirge called A Prayer sung by Madeleine Peyroux from her album Dreamland.....and all of that 'life' filling in the huge area in between, our lives are surrounded by the sounds, noise, and notes that swirl and collect around us every moment of our existence!

Patriotism: July 2, 2015

PATRIOTISM conjures up the image of tri-corner hats and the courageous warnings of an American silversmith and engraver. The vivid impression of a loved one marching off to protect and defend with the pending separation beating life's blood rhythmically between kindred hearts. "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.....!" The school day begins with white stars in a backdrop of deepest blue and broad red and white stripes etched against the industrial green walls of the classroom. Who doesn't recall, at some point in time, the irregular rhythm of halyard and snap hooks clanging against a metal flagpole just outside of an office building or in the schoolyard on a breezy day?

THE LOST ART OF COMMUNICATION ~~ SPEECH

Waterford Lakes, Florida: June 6, 2014

The foyer of the restaurant was comparatively small, just enough room to allow several people respite from a summer shower, if need be. The six of us occupying this enclosed, hollowed space created an unusual feeling of quietness after a few minutes. As we sat comparing notes in whispered tones on our side of the space, it was apparent that silence prevailed on the opposite side.

Texting a friend? Checking her messages? Deleting unnecessary emails? Checking game scores? Absolute quiet. With silent keyboards, there wasn't even the sound of 'clicking' to stir-up the atmosphere. Were we witnessing a complete disregard for the unique enjoyment of interacting with those physically close to us? Exchanging human contact with cyber interfacing instead? With minds compartmentalized by their own devices, mother and daughter, husband and wife, sat silently, deep within their private worlds.....for a very long time.

LEA LISTENING TO SOUND INFORMATION
FROM SHOP CLERK

Cocoa Village, Florida: September 25, 2015

Timeline: September 15, 1997
Google.com is registered as a domain. The name....a play on the word "googol," a mathematical term for the number represented by the numeral 1 followed by 100 zeroes, reflects Google's mission to organize and seemingly infinite amount of information on the web.

Timeline: September 25, 2015
Today I am being formally introduced to the quaint and beautiful little area known as Cocoa Village. Hidden in the midst of hundred-year-old oak trees along the banks of the Indian River, this community dates back to the 1860's. Having lived a mere thirty minutes away for nearly twenty years, why am only discovering this Historic Village now?

Because of my new, dear friends, Lea and Dave, whole new vistas have opened up for me. After enjoying coffee and conversation at Ossorio Bakery & Cafe on Brevard Avenue, Lea took me on a tour of the village, introducing me to shop owners, spoiling me with small, 'unusual' gifts, and making me feel like her beloved sister come to visit from around the world! I not only enjoyed the enchanting Southern experience, but my unselfish host made me feel like a 'Queen for a Day!'

Later we met up with Dave to experience a 'Diner' extravaganza for lunch. Good food and excellent company.....near perfection! Dave, a Mathematician, Engineer, and thirty-five year military veteran, enlightened me as to the interrelationship between Google.com and the mathematical term, 'googol,' for which I am exceedingly grateful.

Lea is trying to convince me to broaden my horizons and dabble in becoming a playwright. The funny part is that I am seriously thinking about it.

Our day together sadly came to an end and I found myself driving back up the 520 to connect with the Beachline Expressway and back home to Orlando. Conveniently, perhaps subconsciously, I left my umbrella in their car. Not that this act was needed to pull me back to this lovely area or into the company of these amazing friends. That will happen again soon. When one finds treasures such as this, you keep 'them' nearby for the rest of your life....

LOOKING UP AT  'BENBAUN'
THE PEAK OF DIAMOND HILL
IN CONNEMARA

Next week I will begin posting my second hundred stories. I can't help but wonder what intimate and surprising roads they will lead me down.



Copyright © 2015 by Jacqueline E. Hughes
All rights reserved

THE CONFESSIONS OF A BOOK ADDICT

A series of essays.....

 LIBRARY AND MUSIC ROOM

.....as seen through my eyes!



By: Jacqueline E. Hughes

This morning I discovered a simple truth about myself. I have more books in my 'To Be Read' pile than food in my refrigerator. Plain and simple, it's just a fact, Jack.

It's the absolute truth but, I don't understand it. You know me, always preaching about taking time out for yourself through meditation, long walks in the woods, and curling up in a comfy spot and reading a good book. So, is it just that I don't practice what I preach or, is there something even deeper and more sinister happening here?

THE TOPSY-TURVY 'TO BE READ' STASH

While observing my TBR stash grow and grow in a very short time, I'm alarmed by the 'top-heavy' appearance of books and fear for the structural integrity of my small wooden desk. The scene imitates a linear brick wall artistically spray painted with the names of books and their authors. Squinting, my collection resembles a colorful cascade made of paper instead of vertically flowing liquid. My beautiful books appear to be melting onto the floor in true Salvador Dali fashion. Yet.....I can do nothing about it. Instead, more books are piled on and my fear is that I will eventually lose this giant Jenga game and the tumbling towers will decide to fall to my office floor around three o'clock in the morning! 

Why is the supply growing and the demand faltering so acutely?

Some people feel the need to add to their shoe collection on a regular basis while others are obsessed with trading in their car for a new one every two years. I can spend one hour in a book store and exit carrying four to five books, easily! Trust me when I say that the longevity of the 'paper' book will never be in jeopardy as long as I am around!

THE NEWEST ACQUISITIONS

As I sit and take a few moments to analyze the situation, I can derive several logical explanations for my predicament. I am insatiable, for one, when it comes to dynamic writing! Whether it be current or classic, fiction or nonfiction, based in history or jetted out into the far-flung corners of a futuristic world, I am there to absorb its contents with gusto and fervor.

Today's market offers us a wide variety of writing styles by awe inspiring authors that truly stand-out within their fields. Some of them, such as J.K. Rowling and Judy Blume, have successfully crossed over from one genre to another with expertise and ease. 

FOR MORE BOOKS........
JUST CLIMB INSIDE THE MIRROR!

Based on their own merits, so many new names have reached public attention and have made quite an impact within the past decade. They include, "The Goldfinch" by Donna Tartt; Young Adult writers, Suzanne Collins and John Green for the "Hungers Games" and "The Fault In Our Stars," respectively; "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah; "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson; the humorous 2004 release by 'funny man,' Christopher Moore, "Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal," that chronicles the 'missing years' of the Messiah's life as told by Biff, His best bud. His work is reminiscent of that of Kurt Vonnegut and Douglas Adams.

Avid readers adore trilogies. The most obvious reason, I believe, is to be able to keep the story going on for as long as possible if you enjoy what the author is writing about. As a writer, peaking the interest of your readers for an extended period of time is a strong tactic to embrace. This keeps your work, as well as your name, in the 'bright lights' for as long as possible. And, the revenue for three books is most appealing.

Also, authors often have so much to say with regards to their subject matter, that their thoughts tend to stretch-out much further than only one book might allow.

E-book authors, those who choose to self-publish their books, often use the idea of a three book series. This is a fantastic marketing strategy for these authors for several reasons. As I mentioned before, elongating your story into three parts helps to sell yourself and your stories for a longer period of time. Considering one of the strongest forums for an e-book author is the use of Social Media, this strategy assists in building interest and promoting sales among your fans, especially while you are working on the second, and, eventually, the third book of your series.

Essentially, many self-published authors will give their first novel away as a promotional ploy. I have seen contests where if you are the first to contact the author on Social Media within a particular time period, he or she will upload their book to your computer. Or, they can offer a 'free' Kindle version on a specific day with the hope of having readers like what they read for free and share that knowledge with others. Thus, building future sales and readers for their next two books in the series.

In answer to your looming question about e-books.....Yes, I do have them stockpiled on my computer's iBooks program, too. Insatiable. Would you expect anything less by now?

LIBRARY TABLE

BEDROOM

FOYER

I have enjoyed their bodies of work and have become friends with several e-book authors. Because I had fallen in love with their stories first, I asked permission to write a book review for them on my Blog so that I could share their talent with others. In doing so, I have gotten to know the strong personalities behind the novels, as well. Two examples would be Eric Vance Walton, author of "Alarm Clock Dawn," a chilling futuristic thriller that captures Corporate greed and corruption as it whittles away at our middle-class society. "Echoes of the Oasis" by A.R. Tirant, evokes the life of a young woman growing-up on the beautiful Creole islands of the Seychelles located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, east of mainland Southeast Africa. Both authors are currently working on the second book of their trilogy series. 

My point is this.....there is so much writing talent offered and so little time to enjoy all of it! In the past, I would cling to the works of several great authors and concentrate on their books alone. They included the bone chilling, 'scare me out of my mind' works of Stephen King; the life of identifiable and homespun Irish characters lovingly written about by the late Maeve Binchy; the monumental writings of the great James A. Michener whose stories would brilliantly thread generations of family members through time and turn learning about history into a cohesive and understandable experience; the intrigue and romance surrounding the Cold War was always intensified by the hand of the seamless author, Robert Ludlum. As you may surmise, my worldly adventures began long before securing my first Passport

I have diversified since the early Stephen King era....and, today, the quote "So many books, so little time!" by Frank Zappa, renowned musician and author of twenty-five distinct works of his own, haunt me every day. Yes, I am a 'Confessed Book Addict.' The signs are everywhere you look. From overflowing bookshelves to bloodshot eyes in the morning after a late night romp between the pages. 

 PARTIAL COOKBOOK COLLECTION
 

From hundreds of pastel sticky-notes stuck between the glossy pages of my favorite cookbook, "Flavors of France," part of The Beautiful Cookbook series, to sinking deeper and deeper into the political genius of Abraham Lincoln by way of the brilliant biographical writings of Doris Kearns Goodwin and her number one Bestseller, "Team of Rivals," reading can become an awesome complexity; a true value towards soothing the body and soul, exercising the imagination, and enlightening the mind.

With much persistence, I have been guided down the many paths of life via imagination and words. Each plot twist, new character, and creative storyline takes me back home. I continue to find 'stunning beauty' in every turn. I would not have it any other way.

LIBRARY CHAIR ALONG WITH
MY LATEST READ, "OF IRISH BLOOD"
BY MARY PAT KELLY

Copyright © 2015 by Jacqueline E. Hughes
All rights reserved

MEDIOCRITY

A series of essays.....

.....as seen through my eyes!



By: Jacqueline E. Hughes

Mediocrity....

isn't, necessarily, the level of achievement we hope to attain when we set out to accomplish something. If our work is deemed mediocre by others, it is possible that we have failed to do our best at the task at hand and, room for improvement is definitely in order. We might agree that 'all things are relative' and understand that comparing one's own work to that of others can be applied to the idea that everything is quantifiable in terms of individual perception or opinion. After all, each of us has a different opinion or viewpoint with regard to everything we see and do, including all topics and subjects.

As writers, we challenge everything we formulate, via words, into stories that we share with all of you. Our method, or system, is to excogitate everyday life as we perceive it to be and secure it with a modicum of truth, the mortar that coherently holds all of the other bits together. To invent an interesting storyline through the written form of improvisation is the ultimate goal of a fiction writer. If we lace our work with personal experiences or historical facts, like a golden shot of 'Jameson' swirled into a mug of strong, black coffee, we connect with our stories on an individual level and hold the reader's hand through time and space. The intent, of course, is to never fall below the line and into the realm of mediocrity.

This intent, with all of its good designs and so forth, is why we unjustly, at times, categorize ourselves as being mediocre. Pressure and fear serve to refrain the deep breaths needed to focus on, have faith in, and believe in the work that we put forth. The lack of creative oxygen can block out the proper words, brush strokes, balance, properly pitched notes, and nearly anything that serves to classify an artist and rank him somewhere between mediocre and great!

The pitfalls of pressure and fear become obvious in the form of 'writer's block,' a profound sense of insecurity, which could lead to addiction (hence my obvious reference to proper Irish Whiskey earlier!!), or depression. Oh, but we are a highly sensitive and anxious group who thrive upon the acknowledgment of others, drink in the compliments, and savor each 'Like' afforded us via social media. We can be spoiled, little brats, and downright pathetic at times, it's true! Nonetheless, when we proficiently create  that memorable masterpiece painting, strum or sing a tune worth hearing over and over again, or write the 'Next Great American Novel' that sells internationally and is translated into numerous foreign languages......whew!!!!, then we will return to our most humble selves. Did I mention a possible movie deal?

Marked by meekness, this is the time we become self-serving entrepreneurs, business men and women who must redefine ourselves in order to promote our work online, by way of social media, and door to door, if need be. Oh, the mighty hatrack is studded with a variety of styles these days as we challenge ourselves with these multiple tasks.

Many artists perform under the guise of being an exuberant personality type, 'Hemingwayesque,' so to speak. Their main interests may include: Enjoying intense experiences, being productive and producing high quality work, using alcohol or drugs for stimulation or relaxation (Again with the Jameson!), traveling and moving to new locations and residences, and being committed to creative work or productivity. When most people fear change, artists tend to anticipate and revel in it. After all, a boisterous celebration and merrymaking can be a good source for creativity. It helps to compensate for the many hours writers lock themselves up in smallish, desk inhabited areas while their imagination runs rampant! We need outlets, too....

I believe that out of the flames of mediocrity rises the mighty Phoenix to begin a new cycle and restore the suffering writer with renewed idealism and hope. Fortunately, this happens more than once in five hundred years!

Making changes, rewriting, reading our words over and over again, rewriting some more, and reading our stories out loud are useful ways of encouraging a writer to become better at his or her craft. If we work long and hard enough, occasionally, our stories are sold and read by the masses. And, sometimes, when you least expect it, our stories are shared by a prominent publication and pushed out into the world to be digested by readers who have yet to hear about you and what you have to offer. Personally, I thank "The France Daily" by My Blogworld for this opportunity. My story, "Memories of a September Wedding Celebration," was highlighted in their Leisure Section this past week. The Link can be found below.

So, is mediocrity such a bad thing if it encourages us to do great things? Does a piece that starts out 'good' become 'great' if we work harder, visualize it to be better and discourage any thoughts of 'only good enough?' This idea crosses my mind every time I sit down at my desk, place my fingertips above the keyboard and begin to work.


Link to "The France Daily" by My Blogworld:
http://paper.li/GoodBlogPosts46/1318466370?edition_id=239fdee0-5861-11e5-ab2e-0cc47a0d15fd



Copyright © 2015 by Jacqueline E. Hughes
All rights reserved

MEMORIES OF A SEPTEMBER WEDDING CELEBRATION

 A series of short stories.....

A Feast For Two

.....as seen through my eyes!


By: Jacqueline E. Hughes

I originally posted this story back on June 12, 2014. It was entitled, "FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN IN SABLET." Our marriage began four decades plus two years ago, and we had dated for almost five years prior to this. Our Journey, albeit a long and sometimes arduous one, has been highlighted by amazing children and grandchildren, family and friends, and so many memorable journeys tucked within Our Journey itself! Celebrating our Wedding Anniversary in Sablet, France, was certainly one of the best! And, for this reason, I am re-posting my story of falling in love again in France.

Meeting new people, learning more about their language and customs, delighting in different foods and traditions.....have all played a huge part in why Dan and I love to travel. We truly believe this is so important to becoming an educated and well-rounded individual! To be able to do this with one's Best Friend, well, it's icing on the cake, for sure. From now on I am officially changing my 'travel mantra' with the hope of showing everyone how important travel should be in our lives. Everyone please repeat after me: "Want to be happy? Stop buying things and go travel!"    

My First Captured Cloud to Ground Lightning Strike

Several years ago, in celebration of our Wedding Anniversary, my husband and I decided to return to France.  This time, the play of warmth and light in sunny Provence called to us like a lavender scent carried along by a gentle breeze.

Research of the many beautiful hilltop villages that dot the southern landscape of France began around a year before our September celebration.  Considering it was to mark our initial venture into this particular region, we concentrated on several main criteria which included a central location to the major sites we wished to explore this trip, convenience to and from the Nice Cote d'Azur Airport via rental car, as well as successfully finding the perfect gite (furnished vacation rental home) to comfortably spend a week in.  We wanted our place to be a home away from home!



Grapevines Below Sablet

Personally, researching a trip is my favorite part because I learn  so much about the area long before we even arrive there.  We concentrated on the Vaucluse Region for many reasons, with the wines of the Rhone River valley being of particular interest to us.  I wanted to learn about these cultivated vines that had been initially planted sometime around 600 BC and walk the small alleyways of the village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape tasting samples of each variety of this heavenly nectar of the gods passed down through the ages!



Roussillon on a Stormy Day

Avignon....Bedoin....Carpentras, slowly we discovered the towns and villages of the Vaucluse via the Internet.  Roussillon was exceptionally beautiful and noted for its large ochre deposits found in the clay surrounding it.  Alas, we did not choose this magical place for our stay. The day we actually visited Roussillon, the entire village was basked in a red hue everywhere you looked.  A large storm was heading directly toward us creating a brilliant backdrop of deep color and light making picture taking phenomenal that afternoon. 

Hilltop Village of Sablet with the Jagged Dentelles de Montmiraile as Backdrop

We discounted the stunning hilltop village of Gordes because of its strong tourist appeal; Beaumes Du Venise ranked exceptionally high on our list meeting all of our criteria and more but, I just wasn't feeling 'it' yet.  And then I was introduced to a small, walled city located north of Orange by the name of Sablet and the 'warm fuzzies' (as my daughter, Ali, calls them) suddenly enveloped me in a feeling of profound security as though I were wrapped in a favorite blanket on a cold, winter's night.  I felt I had discovered 'home' within the Vaucluse. Our 'gite' had to be located in Sablet because I could feel it in my bones that day.



Front Door of Sablet House

Fast forward to a warm, overcast day in mid-September and two people partake of a simple but delicious feast purchased that morning at the open-market of Bedoin near Mont Ventoux.  Elongated French radishes, the color of delicate red and white flowers, rest on a hand-painted porcelain dish, a still life photograph waiting to be captured.  Similar platters and bowls cradle juicy, red strawberries hand-picked merely hours before.  A variety of French cheeses, ripe Brie headlining the aromatic medley, are displayed on a wooden cutting board and positioned alongside a shallow bowl containing a golden loaf of crusty baguette anticipating being pulled-apart, slathered in rich, homemade butter and eaten with reverence and love!  A slightly chilled bottle of local Northern Rhone red, often identified by its signature aromas of green olives and smoky bacon, regally stands at attention waiting to be uncorked so that it may 'breathe' before being poured into the crystal glasses beside it.




Dan Pressing Our Breakfast Coffee

We were sitting at one of the two terraces that made-up the outdoor living area of Sablet House, owned by Michel and Shirley Augsburger who purchased the beautiful stone village house located in the heart of the medieval village of Sablet.  Michel relates how "...the house was fully renovated by an English lady with all of the comforts of a modern home while retaining its authentic Provençal character and charm."  Located just off of the gourmet kitchen, two sets of French doors led us out to our Anniversary luncheon feast on this large terrace.  We could not believe our good fortune but relished it with gusto!!

A Morning Visit to the Local Boulangerie



Bell Tower of Saint Nazaire

Sablet, along with Sablet House, was our home for a week and we fell in love with each one.  This feeling lingers within us to  this day.  The village of Sablet, 1,200 souls strong, is located at the base of the jagged Dentelles de Montmiraile in the Vaucluse region of Provence.  The narrow streets of the village spiral up to the Romanesque Church of Saint Nazaire built in the 12th century and tops the village with its majestic bell tower that reaches up towards the heavens.  The stone village houses curl along the narrow streets that reveal passageways adorned with flowers of every color, exposed ancient wooden beams and a variety of beautiful stone fountains.  Along the lower terrace of the village we discovered two boulangeries (bakeries), a boucherie (butcher shop), a florist and a tabac shop among several local restaurants and more.  Dan would walk down to his favorite boulangerie each morning for his pain au chocolate (chocolate croissants) and then run back up to our house to press coffee to go with them.




Biking Up To Seguret

Michel had purchased new bicycles prior to our arrival and we enjoyed the privilege of touring the charming village streets, as well as  biking up the D23 towards another hilltop village, Seguret, with its elevation overlooking Sablet and the many vineyards surrounding it.  Riding down from Seguret, I captured my first picture of a 'cloud to land' lightening strike as it crashed far off in the distance to the west of Sablet.  I was as excited as a child with her first camera!

Sablet was the perfect location to begin a day of exploration.  Packing our silver Citroen rental car with essential goodies including a camera and an empty market basket that we planned to fill with fresh produce as we stopped in towns and villages along our way.  Conveniently, Michel posted the 'open market' schedules in our kitchen which made it easier for us to decide which direction to explore each day. 



Small Stone Chapel in Nyons

We drove north and were charmed by the beauty of Nyons and climbed to the very top cloaked in a soft September mist as we navigated its narrow streets by foot.  Our reward for the climb was a beautiful small, stone chapel and a spectacular view of the town and vineyards below.

We drove south as far as the ancient village of Les Baux-De-Provence and discovered for ourselves why it is classified as "one of the most beautiful villages in France."  It is an ancient village, carefully restored and only accessible by foot.  At the summit of the village rests the ruins of the Citadel des Baux (ancient fortress) where the views are absolutely endless.



Below the Pont du Gard

We drove west to the ancient Roman aqueduct bridge, Pont du Gard, that crosses the Gardon River near Nimes.  The bridge has three levels and may date as far back as 20 BC!

Venturing eastward, we went antique shopping in the picturesque village of L'Isle-sur-la Sorgue, enjoyed a delicious lunch at an open terrace just outside The Palace of the Pope in the city of Avignon and, late one rainy, overcast afternoon, we discovered the village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape.  Walking inside a 'cave' (wine cellar) we joined others who were interested in learning the history behind the Rhone wine region.  We were not disappointed.  The hour-long demonstration was constantly laced by questions and answers and we walked away quite happy with our newfound knowledge of area wines.           

Entering a Cave at Chateauneuf-du-Pape



Learning the History of Rhone River Valley Wines



Our View From the Upper Terrace

As spectacular as each of these daily adventures were, we took great comfort in the knowledge that we would be returning to our 'home' in Sablet in the evenings, kicking off our shoes and relaxing on the smaller upper terrace that adjoined the Master Bedroom.  Here we  observed the stars sparkling above the Dentelles in the distance. 



The Romance and Beauty of Sablet House

Standing side-by-side holding hands and with a glass of local Rosé raised in the air with the other, we gave cheers and praise to this small, hilltop village we called our home for a short time that glorious September in Provence.... 


To see Michel's Sablet House visit:
www.sablethouse.com

To see Marianne Houlahan's House in Sablet go to:
www.sablethome.com

Two Goofy Kids

Copyright © 2015 By Jacqueline E. Hughes
All rights reserved

KAREN AND HER EVIL TWIN, SKIPPY!

A series of essays.....

THE COLORS OF SANIBEL ISLAND

.....as seen through my eyes!




By: Jacqueline E. Hughes

In the wake of losing so many 'Beautiful Minds' recently, I reserve a moment to pay tribute to them and thank each for bringing all of us so much joy and laughter, happiness and understanding, talent, and the fresh realization that life really doesn't have to be that complicated.

Oliver Wolf Sacks, "Awakenings" author and famed neurologist;
Emma Didlake, the oldest known WWII veteran;
Julian Bond, a Civil Rights activist and longtime board chairman of  the NAACP;
E. L. Doctorow, American author whose historical novels include
"Ragtime" and "The March";
Nicholas Winton, a humanitarian who almost single-handedly saved more than 650 Jewish children from the Holocaust;
John Nash, famed mathematician;
B.B. King, nicknamed the 'King of the Blues';
Thank you, Dr. Wayne Walter Dyer, for becoming one of the greatest spiritual mentors in my life. The world became a better place because of you. You are a Blessing and I know that many   people, including myself, have lived by your wisdom for years.

These are but a few of the talented individuals who have passed through this world and enriched our lives by us, simply, having known about them. Even though our time here on earth is a virtual brief appearance, if we respect our moment of glory, we will leave here one day knowing that we have left a positive mark on the people we leave behind. 

                     

          *****      You've been provided with a perfect body
                          to house your soul for a few brief moments
                          in eternity. So regardless of its size, shape,
                          color, or any imagined infirmities, you can
                          honor the temple that houses you by eating
                          healthfully, exercising, listening to your
                          body's needs, and treating it with dignity
                          and love.   ....Dr. Wayne Dyer                        *****


I began thinking about some of the brilliant people whom I have crossed paths with recently and have left a lasting impression on me. I reasoned that they could be friends, co-workers, or maybe strong personalities that I fondly recalled after meeting for a mere 'blink-of-an-eye' in real time.

And so the story goes......

SANIBEL ISLAND, FLORIDA---2015

The moment we pulled open and passed through the heavy, glass door, once again evading the summer's intense heat, and the 'fairy bells' ceremoniously jingled our arrival into the little shop, the magic began. 

"GLOWING SALMON SUNSET"

We were surrounded by color! Not just any color. Rather, the intense blues of the Gulf waters and the summer sky, the jungle-rich, deep greens of local grasses and royal palm fronds, and the vividness of a sun-drenched day, a glowing salmon sunset, all blending together in creative shapes, sizes, and textures. Hand painted ceramic tiles sidled next to sleek glass vases that loomed high above jaunty garden gnomes with the crown jewel of this sparkling wonderland being the row upon row of 'pirate's booty' encased in clear glass chests. Each piece one-upping the other while tantalizing the senses with their imaginative configurations and profound beauty.

I heard her husky voice above this rich reveal, "This looks spectacular in your hair! Let me show you another way to pull your hair through it and create a different look for evening." Blinking my eyes, I believed I saw my dear Aunt Helen assisting a customer with a fancy hair clip just a few feet away. No, Helen is in Chicago, I reasoned, and not working at Suncatchers' Dream on Sanibel Island. But, my goodness, this lady could be my aunt's twin that nobody ever knew about!

"You'll take it? Fantastic! You won't be disappointed. I've sold so many of these lately and they're especially practical for longer hair given the summer's heat," she remarked.

The gravelly sound of her voice was, actually, soothing to my ears while her expressive smile displayed genuine approval that contributed to her pleasant and agreeable appearance. And, just as my aunt has worn her thick, dark locks since marrying my uncle so many years ago, her hair was cropped short lending a carefree, pixie-like look that only a handful of women can pull-off successfully.

I admit to being transfixed by this 'larger than life' personality. But, something else lingered on in the back of my mind about her, too. Something I couldn't identify at the time.  "Do you think that Kerrington would like these?" were words that floated across the space between my husband and my immobile self. I was pulled back into reality and whispered my answer across the relatively small room. Maybe fifteen minutes later, Dan and I were taking our cache of birthday goodies, secured from pegs lining the far wall, up to the counter.....with dear, Aunt Helen standing right behind it.

"Hi! Those are so cute. They'll really brighten your day. Are they for you or a gift?," my aunt's twin inquired. "A gift for our granddaughter's birthday, but you can just wrap them in tissue and that will be fine," I replied.

"Oh, your granddaughter! Ah, family. There's so much to be said about one's family, isn't there? Take my family, for example....."

Instantly, Dan and I were the sole audience to this convivial atmosphere fueled by honesty and comedic expression. Sure, there was another clerk standing behind 'Helen' wrapping-up our items and shaking her head up and down as she moved with the rhythm of each rapid-fire word. And, the owner of the shop, by the name of Daniel Moore Thompson, we learned later, was working in his small shop right around the corner from the counter we were standing at. Otherwise, the shop was devoid of additional customers.

"......., I have three siblings whom I love, but they descend in intensity of 'liking' from my oldest brother down to my younger sister. I am the third child and reserve the right to judge! Being stuck somewhere in the middle, what else do I have? Hi! My name is Karen."

Looking over at Dan, his expression implied, "See. This isn't your aunt after all." She still might be her twin named, Karen, I thought to myself. Aunt Helen's sense of humor and personality...... definitely similar.

Courtesy of Zen to Zany

"Would you like to hear a funny story?" Karen asked. "Well, you might not think it's funny considering it's about my dear Mother who passed away several years ago. Despite what I say, we were a very close-knit family and we loved and respected our parents for so many wonderful reasons. Mom was a 'beautiful soul' who worked hard and always did the best she could for us. And, she loved our Father dearly, even though he would often drive her crazy in the process.

We knew our Dad would be lost without Mom. Even my malevolent younger sister tried to be nice to him throughout that long week and displayed as much patience as she could muster by repeating almost everything she said because his hearing had been failing for the past several years. Let's face the truth.....he had taken a healthy bite out of the 'Grumpy Old Man' syndrome and Mom's passing intensified it.

We all noticed the morning of the funeral that Dad was very quiet and appeared to be weeping with his nose running like a leaky spigot. Just saying, she was trying to be helpful when my sister offered to get my Dad a tissue. After several offerings with absolutely no response by Dad at all, he slowly turned his head toward my sister. Looking her straight in the eyes, the conversation went down like this,  'Dad, do you want a tissue? Dad, would you like a tissue?' she repeated. Dad simply asked, 'Cashew! Cashew! Why would I want nuts at a time like this for?' "

We were standing there wiping the tears from our eyes....not from sadness or fits of laughter, at all. But, rather, we had been absolutely mesmerized by the pure passion and exuberance that went into telling the story. Karen's variety of vocal inflections and appropriate pauses rivaled any performance I had ever heard from stand-up comedians anywhere. Her non-stop delivery assured me that she must have kissed the Blarney Stone at some point in her lifetime.

"This sounds like a stand-up comedy act, Karen," my husband expressed. "What time is your next performance because we might just return to catch it!"

"Oh, it's just my 'Evil Twin, Skippy' coming out in me. Skippy hides inside until the appropriate time and then jumps-out given the right prompt." Looking straight into my eyes, she continued, "I think it was when you said to wrap these in tissue that 'Skippy' reared his evil head and I couldn't help but relay this story of my Dad and wicked, younger sister. Every word of it was the truth, I promise! By the way, the next show will begin promptly at two-thirty this afternoon....!" Skippy said, smiling and handing Dan the bright turquoise bag with his receipt tucked neatly inside. 

"My Father has since passed on, as well, and often, especially when I have a cold or sore throat, my inner friend, 'Karl,' pops out to say hello. Karl reminds me of my Father when he was much younger; when cheeky grins adorned his handsome face instead of worry wrinkles and frowns."

Multiple personalities? Maybe. A talented and engaging lady, more than likely. Whatever it was, she had me hooked from the moment I heard her voice and saw her huge eyes and engaging smile. Aunt Helen, Karen, Evil Twin Skippy, and Karl.....entertained us out of the sheer joy of being present in the moment and completely alive. She must have sensed our openness and acceptance of her gift because she was able to raise our spirits to a whole new level and never skip a beat the entire time.

It wasn't until Dan and I were back in the car and I was checking my 'Recently Added' photos for the selfie I had just taken of us in the shop that I discovered the answer to the niggling mystery surrounding Karen. (Also, I recognized how my eyes squint when I smile and the side of my mouth turns up slightly in a weak Elvis impression.) Karen's eyes are wide-open to the world and her smile is as engaging as her personality.

~~~ELVIS AND SKIPPY~~~

Staring at the picture, I quickly realized that we were wearing the same pair of glasses! The same frame including style, color and size! Did this coincidence tie us together in a Sisterhood, a society of women linked with a common purpose or goal? I wondered about this.

Our shopping excursion for birthday gifts that tropical afternoon on Sanibel Island turned out to be an adventure that we will never forget. And, if you hurry, you might be lucky enough to catch a future 'one-woman' show inside the colorful gift shop, Suncatchers' Dream, located across from Bailey's General Store on Tarpon Bay Road. Just listen for Karen's voice. Believe me, you will not be disappointed!


Copyright © 2015 by Jacqueline E. Hughes
All rights reserved.

INNOCENCE....Another Word For Freedom

A series of essays.....

~~~LYDIA~~~

 














.....as seen through my eyes!



INNOCENCE.....

is simply another word for freedom. Free of guilt, sin, moral wrong, with the lack of knowledge of evil or wrong doing. Generally associated with the very young and the naive, we visualize youth as not having been tainted by the negativity of life itself and walk the earth within a shell of purity and bliss. My aching heart cries for the loss of childhood innocence in so many places around the world: Syria, Africa, India.....the mighty United States of America. 

Tears roll down my face and I ache for this blatant, selfish, unnecessary theft of pure innocence and freedom. I am ashamed of mankind. We have failed to evolve. We have ignored our gift of intelligence and placed greed upon the altar to be idolized, worshipped, and adored. We have put our children's lives at risk. And, the most grievous part is that many of us will not admit to it. A blanket of ignorance will never be good enough to cover-up for the lack of simple common sense.

There is a freshness that surrounds the truly innocent. Like a cool mountain breeze that gently skims across our skin or the delicious aroma of freshly baked bread cooling on the countertop as your Mother hums a simple tune in the kitchen, innocence is captured. With this freshness comes possibilities. With this innocence, dare we dream of hope?

"Those who are incapable of committing great crimes do not readily suspect them in others," wrote La Rochefoucauld, a French writer and moralist, in the late seventeenth century. Most of us continue to conduct our lives believing in the good of mankind, discounting the rumors of guilt-laden souls filled with cunning, guile and senseless hate for other human beings. Most of us are incapable of 'great crimes.' We, too, are the Innocents. We often hear the phrase that 'no one is perfect' and understand it epitomizes the essential characteristics of people we love and admire the most; people with kindness in their hearts, but never claim the essence of perfection within their own lives. They learn and grow because of their mistakes. They love life and fill the lives of others with joy. "If we had no faults of our own, we would not take so much pleasure in noticing those of others." ...Rochefoucauld wrote.

"Is Man kind? Are we good? Look through their windows so that you can understand their views. Set at their tables so you can share their tastes. Sleep in their beds so that you may know their dreams. Find out just how kind the he's and she's of this mankind are." .....Courtesy of airbnb. Let us travel this breathtaking world and introduce ourselves to its he's and she's and share and compare our knowledge with one another to help preserve our Earth and keep Her safe.

BREAKING NEWS:

Even the Innocents are questioning the souls of others today! As I write this essay, I am being alerted about two innocent lives that have been taken from us in Moneta, Virginia this morning. Two victims of senseless violence. BREAKING NEWS: Reporter, Photographer Shot & Killed On Air In Virginia..... What can I write or say right now? What could possibly make any sense from this heinous act of violence against two innocent beings delivered by another? May God bless and keep you, Alison Parker, twenty-four years young, and Adam Ward, twenty-seven years young.

My heart is crying.

It's funny to me that all of the pounding negativism I was feeling thirty minutes ago as I was beginning my story has not been ramped-up by this 'act of hate' against Alison and Adam. Extreme acts of sadness affect each of us differently and I am a bit bewildered by my own emotions at this moment. I am calm, focused and tied to the earth.....as if my body has become one with nature and my soul is at peace with the world. Crazy.....given the circumstances. It's as though my life is honoring the two lives that have been taken from us and for now, I am one with their spirits as they leave this world and go on to the next.

What a truly engaging experience for me.

I am sure there will be time for numbness, contemplation of reality and questioning of motives in this case.  The understanding of it will take so much longer, if ever, I fear.

Thinking back to the young innocents who began my story today, I believe that their freedom from guilt, sin and moral wrong has a timeline that continues to dwindle with each school shooting, theater massacre, and 'attention based' killing that takes place. Circumstances that are certainly not beyond our control are shortening their freedom and elongating their fears at such extremely young, vulnerable ages. As adults, it is our responsibility to protect them and allow them to be carefree longer. I understand that we can't hide them in their rooms until they're thirteen. But, we can assist in regulating the weapons used in these crimes, as well as help educate others as to how and why these weapons must be properly controlled.

I offer you a few excerpts from a book entitled 'Abstract Poetry 4Life' by Deneene A. Collins that stretches the imagination and challenges our protective abilities when it comes to our children; our lives: "If I were a bee I would sting to protect everything important to me including my sweet, thick honey..... Though a sting may hurt you temporarily, it kills the very bee that makes the choice to sting you permanently. So never think that it is something a bee wants to do but realize it is only what they feel they have to do. Humans sting each other all the time with hurtful words, foul actions, and vicious lies. If your sting would take your life wouldn't you think twice before imposing ill actions on another?"

Most importantly, we must teach our children how to love.....  Learning to love one another, in the basic sense of respect and kindness, should be the number one priority of each of us, ranging from birth to the day we finally leave our earthly home. I may sound like a broken record when it comes to this mind-set, however, I ask you, if the repetition of something so basic and simple can help to reinforce and support the freedom we all deserve, would you be tired of hearing about it? Love is the key to opening all doors. Allow it to open your heart.

In Loving Memory of Alison and Adam.



Copyright © 2015 by Jacqueline E. Hughes
All rights reserved