An island getaway & polka dotted paintings...

Just thinking about escaping to somewhere warm in the middle of a New England winter lights me up and makes me SMILE SO BIG! The week before last, when the snow was falling, and the frigid winds were blowing here in Connecticut, Brett and I welcomed the sultry trade winds on the Happy Island of Aruba.

We met my parents on the island and arrived just in time for happy hour where we were staying. The frozen, tropical drinks didn't make me miss the cold at all!

"Polka Dotted Landscape" acrylic, 12 x 12 inches

Neither of us can honestly remember a vacation where we felt so relaxed, in no rush to be anywhere, or do anything. We had planned to take a few excursions on the island, but found ourselves lured by the soft white stretches of beach and the lull of warm aquamarine waves. I even read a book for pleasure which I rarely make time for.

Pure joy!

I was brought back to my "Jimmy Buffett" state of mind and Parrothead mentality. Allowing for the grace of "island time" and being with my family were a great gift that we won't soon forget. Brett & I both came back feeling completely rejuvenated, appreciative, and alive.

"It takes no more time to see the good side of life than it takes to see the bad."

~Jimmy Buffett

"Poetry of the Day" acrylic on wood panel, 12" x 12"

These two paintings were inspired by my love of the islands and polka dots. "Polka Dotted Landscape" has a thick texture I created with molding paste and "Poetry of the Day" has a found poem on the horizon line that reads, "

Mother Nature's brilliant display of color

brighter than the poetry of the senses,

joyful simplicities nourish body and soul,

engaging our senses,

the highest reflection of your soul,

quiet, reflective, positive

Sending you a little sunshine wherever you are!

xo

laura :)