Mojave Light Musing

Like many others during the height of the lockdown, I spent a lot of time on Zoom in webinars, workshops, and private gatherings to stay connected, sane, and either hone up on skills or learn something new. There were a lot of intriguing and serendipitous connections being made.  In this particular case, I cannot remember exactly when or how but I do remember where - Instagram - another alternative photographic printmaker and I connected over...one of her images? Mine? Another artist whose feed we both followed? Either way, one comment lead to another and then a mutual follow, a few back and forth messages, and then an idea blossomed... Through a few Instagram message exchanges, I learned this woman lived where I frequent - in a small community outside of Bellingham, WA - where I fly to in order to make a short drive to one of the islands to see family. Her art style is one I resonate with and admire greatly. We discovered quite a few parallels in our lives, like:  we both hav...

I'm back! The little respite from trying to figure out what to post on a daily basis has afforded me a creative burst of energy. That's what meandering Saturdays are for - days few and far between for me as I seem to always schedule my 'free' time away doing volunteer work, arranging hike outings for friends and new acquaintances, or running in circles trying to catch up with the must-dos around my home. This particular weekend, however, I gave myself permission to not be in charge of anything but me.  And, amazingly, much was accomplished - including some nothing-in-particular restful time at my favorite place - home .  All in a day... Saturday morning found me wandering the farmers' market for fresh goodies with time thrown to chat with dear friends over Aztec coffees (and a vegan date shake for breakfast for me....yum!) in the warm spring sun.  I love this little place in Joshua Tree - Ricochet Gourmet. Fabulous, homemade food and drinks. Hip vibe but not pre...

You are probably wondering what this post has to do with living in the desert or why it isn't some pretty sweet scene of this foreign-to-you country called the Mojave Desert.....  Today's post is about kindred spirits. It is in honor of my best friend and fellow Capricorn's birthday. Life is one grand adventure and when you have people who come through to share a bit of the path with you, it's all the more sweeter. This photo reminds me of friendship and laughter and people who 'get you'. (No, it's not 2 scoops of guacamole with chocolate syrup and a cherry....silly people.......) What a better way to celebrate the fact someone was granted another year of life than to spend time with the people who care about you - and you return the sentiment. It's really not about the "stuff" we accumulate. It's about time well spent which is more precious than diamonds and gold...  Thank you to all those who have graced my life and offered a bit of your...

  (Image Copyright Diana Shay Diehl. Food creations by Chef Rosa Ficara.) (Image copyright Diana Shay Diehl. 'Ant Farm Gang' coloring book copyright Kim Mayhew of Ant Farm Studio.  Food and libations courtesy of Chef Rosa Ficara.)   This is what Sundays are for....time for reflection and prayer;  scrumptious food prepared not only with skill but great love - you could taste it in every bite;  and kindred spirits to share it with. Conversations were lively and thought-provoking. Laughter was punctuated by a few tears that still needed shedding followed by more laughter and a hug.  New ideas hatched. Old ones revised. Heart-felt sharing. Acceptance. Food for the soul....