Floral Fireworks 2010

The Fourth of July always invokes in me a sense of Patriotism and joy in the Freedoms that we all share as citizens of our great Nation. One of my favorite quotes by John Adams is this..."I must study politics and war, that our sons may have liberty to study
mathematics and philosophy. Our sons ought to study mathematics and
philosophy, geography, natural history and naval architecture,
navigation, commerce and agriculture in order to give their children
a right to study painting, poetry, music, architecture, statuary,
tapestry and porcelain."



I am thankful that my grandfather served in the US Coast Guard during World War II and fought to protect my freedom....and that my father served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War to protect my freedom. They are citizens and Patriots deserving of the highest regard in my mind. Because of them and many others like them in this country I now have the right to study painting, poetry, music and whatever else I would like to enjoy.









One of my favorite things to do is to take pictures. I am not an accomplished photographer but merely someone who likes to capture the world around me in still frames. I can look back at these captured moments and remember the feelings, scents and emotions that I had at the moment I took the photos.





These photos were taken in my yard yesterday among the sounds of firecrackers and children's laughter, with the warmth of a summer sunset on my shoulders and the scent of the flowers in my nose. I hope that you will get a warm feeling when you look at them and be inspired to create something beautiful this holiday weekend.



You have been given the Freedom to create. Exercise this right every chance you get.

Happy 4th of July!