Each morning I sit in my father’s old chair and I listen to the birds sing as I watch the sun rise over the Bay. With a cup of coffee, my Bible and The Tao at my side, I am completely content. The long list of each day’s tasks is daunting, yet I religiously take my “quiet time” each morning before I start my day.
Thirty years away and I have found myself back home again; home to the sugar white sand, the emerald green waters, the bays and bayous. Home to the Camellias and Narcissus blooming in winter, the blackberries we pick in the spring, figs in the summer and wildflowers in the fall. Home where the conversations of hunting, fishing, sailing and surfing dominate, where the remnants of the Old South abound. Home where everyday kindnesses are common. The light conversation, enthusiasm and care between friends and strangers alike, though so often misunderstood by visitors, just help make the days pass a little smoother.
The holidays are upon us and I look forward to the decorations along Palafox I enjoyed as a child. I will support the local businesses and enjoy the charm of our historic downtown.
No, the arts are not as abundant here as they are in the big cities I enjoyed for so long. I miss the clash of cultures, the constant flow of challenging conversation, the sheer energy of Chicago, New York and Paris. Yet as much as the big city offers, so too does a small Southern town.
It is the soul of this gem of a city that makes me want to stay.
I am still in a big city but I never feel alone at the beach.The beach heals everything. Family, friends and memories are cherished and enjoyed at the place of one’s beginning. Thank you for keeping those natives who are away physically, home in Pensacola with your words and your art. I enjoyed seeing your art in a fellow Facebook friend’s photos of the living room. Your friends share a common bond of Pensacola through you.
Stay strong, live strong,
Joe
Thank you Joe, I very much appreciate your encouraging words. You may enjoy reading the short story I wrote about a day I spent at Fort Pickens. It is posted on my blog too, also under “Through the Eyes of Wonder” and titled “A Drive to Pickens.” My best to you and thank you again. Margaret
Found your lovely art on a trip to Pensacola’s art galleries. Picked up your brochure
and looked up your site. Sitting here in
SW Washington state, I wish I could show you the green rolling hills and the tall pointed trees of my world in the Puget Sound backwaters. May God continue to bless your talent.
Susan
Thank you so much Susan. I have been to Washington State once for a brief visit.
So very beautiful there.Took the train from Seattle to Vancouver, along the Coast.
Magnificent.
I will return one day…perhaps then you can show me those green rolling hills.
Are you familiar with the work of Emily Carr?
She is a favorite of mine. I am certain you will appreciate her work as well.
She depicts so beautifully the Pacific Northwest.
Take care.