What do you do? and why?

Well, for me, some of you may not know I am a big sucker for animals. I think I probably learned this best about myself, through my two girls. Especially the first, who is now 20 and living on her own, when she decided she didn't want to couldn't be a veterinarian because she couldn't deal with the suffering of animals.

(This is Frankie the Frenchie, my newest addition who has severe allergies.)

So, through my kitchen and up the stairs to the upper half-floor (the technical term) of my 1924 California Bungalow is my fabric studio - the entire upstairs dedication - but downstairs is a home mostly dedicated to my love of dogs (and one little lop-eared Dwarf bunny who lives snuggle on the big front porch.

I garden (past-life degrees, but real), I feed and comfort, I make laugh, and try to encourage smiles and joy. I was not raised with this sort of life, but I feel so graced to have found it for myself, and nothing brings me more joy than to pay forward happiness to others.

I truly believe that creation - through crafting, art, laughter, joy - is one way I can really make my life worth living. We are social by nature, and by cultivating joy and positive imagery - mostly through visual aesthetics and submersing in things we like - makes for a better world. As superficial it may sound on the outside (if you will) it can truly cultivate something deeper and more meaningful. Just as one flame can start a forest fire, so can one idea or thought light the world with love - or at least reach thousands. Do not discount the power of an innocent child, or the power of a single image.

I would like to leave you with a heart-wrenching but beautiful video of this one small boy from inner-Mongolia. Although it may no doubt bring tears, I assure you that you will be left with real joy and inspiration. As always - all comments welcome. :) -Namaste.