Dusk @ Lake Delhi

 Ahhhhhh...the enchanting colors above the horizon held by the shimmering water below...breathtaking, indeed.   However, there's more!  Look toward the top of the image near the center.  Yep, that is "luna slice" -- which is my term for the new moon that appears as a tiny luminous crescent sliver at twilight.  The setting feels magical.  It is definitely something beautiful.  

What a View!

 "We shall go wild with fireworks, 

and they will plunge into the sky

 and shatter the darkness."

                                                                                  --Natsuki Takaya

Coral Shimmers

 

"May every sunrise hold more promise 

and every sunset more peace."

                                                                                                     --Umair Siddiqui

Dusk

 This image is from Arnold's Park located on West Lake Okoboji in the region known as the Iowa Great Lakes.  As the sun drops below the horizon, this spot along the shore just parallel to the amusement park is perfect for capturing the quiet glassy water, expansive lake, intricate lines on the docks and colorful sky.   Ahhhhhhhhhh..... I linger here as long as possible which equates to me swatting profusely as mosquitos and their extended families arrive to feast on my exposed skin.  However, after several years of this evening routine, now typically I wear clothing that covers my arms and legs and keep myself moving.  Despite those hungry insects, this place is definitely something beautiful.

Not a Hugger?

 

"Reach for the stars, 

even if you have to stand on a cactus."

                                                                                  --Unknown

My Art & Classes

 

Ever want to draw something but feel clueless about how?  Gotcha.  

That feeling along with everything else we tell ourselves about why we should not or cannot be creative can seem rational and true.  No worries.  

However, if you are somewhat interested in drawing and want a lot of guidance and support, take my class.  All the info is in the link below.  

In these virtual classes, show up with paper, a black marker, a pencil and we go from there as I offer step-by-step instructions for what to draw where and when.  

Yep, honestly, it is that easy.  

4 Upcoming Classes:

-- Wednesdays -- July 19 & 26; August 2 & 9

-- 11 am - 12:15 pm

-- each class purchased separately via Eventbrite

-- after registering, attendees receive a link for the session via Zoom

-- link to Eventbrite:

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/zentangle-art-basic-beautiful-2219879?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=creatorshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=odclsxcollection&utm-source=cp&aff=escb

Stephanie Funke, Certified Zentangle Teacher

Thyme in a Garden

Yep, it's there.  Lemon thyme is visible in these images.

See it?  In each photo to the right.

In the above image it is tucked behind the sprigs of rosemary while below it is alongside the gazing ball.

In addition to those two plants, my tiny herb garden also contains sweet basil and a few varieties of lavender.

Yes, I do add the rosemary, thyme and basil to my food, and love the amazing flavors and aromas.  And, of course, I use lavendar throughout our home for a delightful scent.  In addition to those obvious uses, as an artist I also incorporate these plants in my drawings and work with pigment.

Definitely something beautiful.

 

Independence Day