There’s something magical about watching the sun calmly drift across a room.
After arriving home, I’d placed my earrings on a nearby table and burrowed under a soft blanket on the couch. While the sun continued its gentle march and evening slowly consumed the last light of day, it was by chance I looked down at this moment: when my heart danced to life.
Life truly is beautiful, isn’t it?
~Ana
I am originally from the islands in the Pacific Northwest and from there moved up into the mountains (I am adventurous that way). I lived on a plot of land that bordered the National Forest. The air was fresh, our creek’s water was pure glacial run-off, and there were firs and pines as far as the eye could see. Idyllic.
After a wonderful first summer and beautiful fall, winter struck on the first of November. I found myself buried under snow for the next six months of my life. One quickly learns at a point such as this that you have a choice: do or die.
Needless to say I got very adept with a snow shovel (and later on a snow blower) but even those tools didn’t do much in handling the constant physical (and mental) strain that arises from trying to carry on with even the simplest of daily activities.
I now reside on the Suncoast of Florida, but that does not mean I don’t have compassion and an understanding of what you folks up north are enduring. We are thinking of you down here and hope it ends very shortly.
From me to you, here’s a little something to warm your day:
It has been said that the first documented use of masks in Venice dates back to the 13th century. In subsequent years, Carnevale evolved into a mass celebration where, being anonymous, one was not judged by their social standing. The result was that all classes could freely and joyously interact.
Masks were later banned in the 1930′s under the ruling Fascist party, but Carnevale was given the breath of life a handful of decades later by a group of local artisans in the late 1970′s.
The Italian government quickly fell in step and now showcases this vibrant and very popular festival each year.
One of the most prized awards during the carnival is “the most beautiful mask” or la maschera più bella.
Carnevale di Venezia is one of the top festivals world-wide, drawing up to an estimated 100,000 participants and spectators each year.
Ciao for now, Venezia! I will see you next year!
~Ana
Today I hope we all take an extra moment and let the people we care about know how truly important they are to us; how they brighten our days and enrich our lives; how they make this journey called life so very worthwhile.
I’m wishing you all a wonderful day of love, admiration and respect, as each of you is important to me. :)
Love,
