picnic dinner at sunset

sunset at Golden Gardens, originally uploaded by isabelle gr.

Here's something spontaneous that I want to repeat every single night of the summer: we made calzones (personalized with our names spelled out in olives and tomato sauce), jumped in the car, and drove to the beach at Golden Gardens. The calzones were still hot when we got to the beach five minutes later.

We sprawled out on the big pink blanket and watched the other families on the beach while Bauhaus kicked as much sand as fast as he could onto the blanket and everything. He dug a substantial hole and lay down in it, leaving us with a small hillock of sand to rest on.

We took lots of photos in the luxurious evening light. It was almost 8:30 when we took these, and there were still lots of people enjoying our neighborhood beach. This first summer evening is a perfect example of why I wanted to move here. Calzones, sandy dogs, and 9 o'clock sunset.

These are my era-appropriate sunglasses that I wear when we drive in the camper. I believe they once belonged to my sister Eva, who is also era-appropriate to the camper. Eva is coming to spend the summer with us. I can't wait to share this wonderful place with her, including many more picnics.

on the auction block

sweet pea & chrysanthemum 1, originally uploaded by isabelle gr.

My friend Brittany invited me to donate artwork to benefit the Washington Park Arboretum. Each year they host the Northwest Flower and Garden Show at the convention center, which kicks off with a big gala the night before the official public opening. In addition to thousands of plants over six acres and lots of fancy snacks and about 400 guests all dressed up, the gala includes this benefit auction. I am so excited to participate!

Here are the two pieces I donated, titled Sweet Pea & Chrysanthemum I & II. They are each about 6 inches wide and 8 - 10 inches tall. They are framed and archivally matted; the first two pieces of a new drawing series I am working on.

The Arboretum is a gorgeous 200+ acre park in the heart of the city. It was founded in 1934 and designed by the Olmstead Brothers, sons of the Olmstead who designed Central and Prospect Park. The Arboretum's history notes that the construction of the Olmstead Brothers' beautiful landscape provided work relief to Depression-stricken Seattle laborers. Today, the Arboretum features expansive trails and countless native species as well as an elegant Japanese Garden. I just love it, and I'm pretty jealous that Brittany gets to work there!