of lajes goodness: part III

On Sunday, March 30, my husband and I arrived at the Lajes Field airport just as they opened.  We are both neurotically punctual and wanted to give ourselves plenty of time to get checked in--especially when traveling with three pets.  After we checked in, we returned to what had been out beautiful home for the...

of lajes goodness- part II

My husband and I arrived on the island of Terceira on the evening of March 31, 2011.  Outside, it was already dark and the wind was fierce (we later heard it had blown over a shipment delivery truck in the Base Exchange parking lot).  We had been delayed leaving London, and thus, barely caught our Lisbon...

of lajes goodness–part I

People who haven’t been stationed at Lajes Field in the Azores, probably haven’t heard the common phrase Lajes Goodness. After having been stationed here for three years, I am leaving Lajes a happier, healthier and emotionally stronger person than I was when we arrived—much of that can be contributed to Lajes Goodness. To explain why...

artist’s way II: introduction

I have decided to work through Julie Cameron’s The Artist Way for a second time.  A couple of years ago, I tried The Artist’s Way on a whim.  At first, I wasn’t sure if I was doing it right.  However, over the weeks, I noticed a subtle positive shift in my perspective and I began...

art with girl scouts

I have some experience working with children, since I have been a substitute teacher, taught community education classes and private art lessons.  However, since I don't have children of my own, and grew up in a family with few siblings and cousins, I am always slightly self-conscious when working with a new group of small...

365 good days: #363

I love the genuine nature of rural life on Terceira.  My husband and I are driving, and then we find ourselves among a heard of cattle, slowly shuffling from one field to another.  I find it amusing every time (which is usually at least once every month or so).  They almost seem to know exactly...

365 good days: #340

My marketing job brought me back to the Atlantic Island Kennel today.  I took the free photos for their annual Santa Paws event.  This is an adorable event where people bring their pets to the kennel to have Christmas photos taken with Santa.  Dale's husband, who isn't a huge animal person was kind enough to...

ancient gods and contemporary circumstances (II)

Last night was the opening for my Ancient Gods and Contemporary Circumstances exhibition.  I had previously displayed this body of work earlier this year at the Academia de Juventude, shortly after its completion.  I am very proud of this recent series, and I have received a generally positive response.  I think many people share my fascination...

365 good days: #332

Today, the Lajes Field Girl Scouts hosted the Mutt Strut fundraiser.  This was a delightful event to gain funds for our Girl Scouts, but also--they were helping raise money for Recomeco, a local organization that helps abandoned and stray animals on the island of Terceria.  These people work tirelessly, and I am amazed by their...