Such wise words, don't you think?
Just over a week ago, we travelled north to the Lake District on a blissful blue sky day to visit John Ruskin's Brantwood on the flanks of Lake Coniston. Oooh ... I could gladly give all my time to taking in the magnificent views there. How easy it is to become drunk on the ever changing scenery and the drowsing perfume of wildflowers.
Here's a picture of me lost in the view ...
John Ruskin was an artist, a writer, and a great thinker. Born in 1819, Ruskin was a radical voice in Victorian society and his art and words have left a lasting legacy. If you ever have chance to visit beautiful Brantwood, I'm sure you will fall in love with the place. The gardens are an inspiration!
Mr Fenwick took this gorgeous landscape shot. Just look at the sky!
While at Brantwood, I indulged! I bought a gorgeous Meg Falconer limited edition print (inspired by Wordsworth's Intimations of Immortality), a lovely crystal (which reminded me of Coleridge's Kubla Khan) and a miniature notebook for writing my quotes. Here's a photo of my finds ...
Apart from play-time and exploration, my trips always inspire my creativity and inform my writing. And I returned from the Lakes feeling invigorated and full of ideas.
This is so good as I am now working on the next units of the writing MA. I have met my new tutor, Richard House, who I will be working with as I prepare and write my novel. Already, from his first enlightening lecture, I am completely inspired and excited by what will unfold in the weeks to come.
But, I must be in the now ... All that matters is this moment ...
Here in the west, Summer solstice has breezed in and life in the valley beyond my writer's nest is lively. I have been watching all the baby birds feeding and we have been blessed with regular visits from the Greater Spotted Woodpecker. Such a handsome fellow he is too with his red cap. And, I'm feeling so close to nature that I can hear the beat of her pulse.
Until next time, enjoy all those lovely, lovely moments, sweet friends. x
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13 Comments:
Oh, what a lovely day and scenery. And what wonderful purchases. No bother about the award, I just wanted others to discover you and your sublime writing and gorgeous sceneries. It was a good chance for me to mention you.
Thank you so much, Linda, and for mentioning me on your blog. It's so kind of you to do that and is much appreciated. You really are an angel. I don't know how you find the time to do so much. What an incredible inspiration you are! Much love to you. xx
Good day, Carol Anne,
1) Please tell Mr. Fenwick for me that he takes some fantastically gorgeous photos... This photo of you and the magical landscape is breathtakingly beautiful... look at that rolling greenery, blue waters and windswept painterly sky, and the contrasts of stone and wood. Magnificent!
2) The Falconer LE print, crystal, and (oh, yes) that notebook are simply irresistible... I fell in love with them the moment I expanded the photo.
3) It is quite satisfying to share in your journey as a writer, and I thank you so much for the vicarious thrill. I wish you well with your new tutor, Mr. House... it really sounds as if this leg of your journey has started off with a spark.
4) Also quite sublime are your divinely lyrical musings on nature.
Thank you!
A Good Day to you, too, David. :-)) Thank you for your thoughtful comments. How blessed I am to know you. I have passed on your message to Mr Fenwick and he is thrilled that you like the photos. And I'm thrilled too that you're enjoying the journey with me. That makes such a difference. Thank you for your well-wishes and, of course, I send to you much love and light in return. x
It's been nice on this side of the Pennines as well Carole, though today suggests things are about to change. Your observations are inspiring as ever and put me to shame.
It's back to Falmouth for us next Friday, for the Accomodation fair the following day and we'll be staying on until we can find somewhere to live. Hardly what I'd call a hardship.
Best wishes,
Chris
I can't wait to read our novel when you are done!
I'm sure it will be amazing and whimsical as you are!
Lovely place that Lake district! The skies look gorgeous!!
Beautiful finds too that print is gorgeous and that big blue crystal magic!! The book is adorable too.
Happy writings xoxo
i look forward to reading your novel! and thankyou for the wonderful blue sky photos! what CLOUDS!!! such beauty.
Chris ... Thank you for your message and good luck with finding your writer's den in Falmouth. Wishing you lots of sunshine and happy days in beautiful Cornwall! x
Lena ...Thank you, my dear friend. You are always so kind and your good wishes always bring magic into my day. x
Martha ... Lovely to hear from you and thank you so much for your message and the follow. x
Much love and light to you all. xx
Hi Carol Anne, I am trying to follow your example about spending more time in nature. It is necessary and I think the more stressful life becomes the more one needs it. Yesterday I spent the day painting by the bay, water, marshes, mountains, trees. Best of all, no hum of traffic, no crowds! Wonderful...
PS I have one of those notebooks too! I use it for little doodles or notes for when I'm standing in line, and other such things. It's really great for when I don't want to carry too much weight.
It is SUPER hot here, almost 100 fahrenheit, and so getting out is hard. Coming to your beautiful blof is like a breath of cool and lovely air. Thank you, lovely Carol, for this gorgeous vacation!!!
I am so happy for your creative inspiration. Can't wait to see what is born out of your inspiration.
Cheryl ... How magical! I'm so happy that you've managed to spend time with nature and I can just picture you painting by the bay within such a beautiful landscape. I know it will be so incredibly healing and inspiring for you to work this way. The notebook is perfect for doodles and notes. I love it! x
La Belette ...Wow! It really is super-hot where you are! Temperatures are starting to climb here too. At last, summer has arrived! Thank you too for your engaging insights. You are an inspiration! x
I love the Lake district - such a beautiful place. The print is gorgeous as are your photographs. Enjoy writing your novel - I look forward to enjoying reading it:)
Jane ... Thank you so much. I hope all is going well with you. Much love and bright moments. x
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