the earth ink

This isn’t how it was supposed to be – my life, that is. I was meant to follow the example of generations before me: Grow up in my homogenous “safe” community, earn good grades in school, make friends, play outside, and graduate from high school. Then I would dash off to a reputable university to obtain a degree—and that coveted Mrs. degree with the man of my dreams. Then, I would settle down in my small safe hometown and push the refresh and repeat button for my own child. I am literally on the other side of the world from those initial 22 years of aspirations. When I graduated with only a degree in communication I started facing the raw disappointment that my life would not follow the plan handed down from most of my family and female role models. I still desire pieces of that carefully preconceived notion about life’s path. But, I can see that every sentence of my story is woven like a thread into a fantastically intricate tapestry of experiences. None of my moments are worth retu...

Currently experiencing springtime in the Northern Hemisphere, this little birdy was a beautiful reminder of warmer weather that is trying to emerge between cold winter flurries and turbulent transitional storms. After the hibernation of winter, seeing life reappear on the trees and new critters hopping and flying outdoors leaves hikers refreshed and hopeful for summer. On this particularly warm Washington day, the leaves had not yet reappeared on the trees, but the birds were out in abundance near Lake Whatcom at Bloedel Donovan Park in Bellingham. Tree stumps showcased vibrant mosses and the smells of Washington's forests pervaded through my nostrils; more an earthy than musty aroma, the atmosphere smells alive, growing, and hopeful. I am no birder, but this looks like this might be a Vermilion Flycatcher in the crook of tree branches.

One day, The Earth Ink may open a cafe and coffee shop where customers can write their postcards, catch up with old friends, and share their life experiences. Along with a beautiful espresso bar, the shop will most certainly carry fruit tarts. These tarts from The French Bakery in Bellevue, Washington would certainly be the inspiration behind any such menu item. Beyond being quite tasty, these treats with fresh fruit and perfectly prepared "tart" are colorful and photogenic. Until The Earth Ink's shop opens, if you ever find yourself in the neighborhood, indulge yourself and enjoy the French Bakery's velvety smooth espresso as well.

July Fourth in the United States is a celebration of the Country's independence and everything red, white, and blue. While most eyes focus up into the night sky to see the fireworks shows, there was a another reflective show in the fountain pool at Bellevue's Downtown Park. This photo was captured by focusing the camera's lens down on the water. A longer exposure captures the light squiggling through the gentle ripples on the water's surface and creates an illusion of a crazed firework explosion.