Phoenix

I lived in Phoenix Arizona (moved back to the PNW because I missed trees), but that's not what this post is about. I have a tattoo of Phoenix rising on my shoulder, but that's not what this post is about. The Phoenix is also a symbol of Scorpio, which happens to be my astrology sun sign as well, and that's kind of what this post is about, but not entirely. 

I've been in a rut where I haven't wanted to put out much artwork recently. It's mostly to do with external circumstances that are heavily impacting the path of my 'well organized and laid out plans for the future'. But then, a cat named Phoenix has taken my heart because of a path she is taking that most cats will never do.

I won't go into retelling the story, but most of us by now have heard of Sailing With Phoenix, the young man who left his corporate job, emptied his 401k, bought a sailboat as a novice sailor, and sailed from Oregon (my home state!) to Hawai'i with his kitty Phoenix. Health issues also impact his decision to embrace the decision to start over, which in itself is enough to ponder our purpose.

While Oliver (the young man) has many posts documenting his journey and lovable nature, it's his kitty Phoenix who has captured my heart.

She was found in a dumpster several years ago, and Oliver rescued her from what I can gather on his social media posts. He then continuously expresses his love and devotion to her, and frequently displays their bond throughout his video posts. And all I keep thinking is, that lucky cat! So of course, being a painter of people's beloved pets, I had to capture her with watercolor and ink.

 

I laminated this piece to keep it waterproof because I honestly hope I can get it to her and her first mate as they continue sailing the oceans!

Oliver and Phoenix's journey was incredible to watch. Human vulnerability and humility (to me) are ultimate displays of human courage. That's already on top of his impending health issues, quitting the rat race life we are conditioned to believe is our purpose, and draining the 401k pot of money held for the 'future and security'. 

In Oliver's speech as he was welcomed to Hawai'i at the Waikiki Yacht Club on May 24th, he mentions that the world is in a weird place, and he has displayed that it's possible for people to 'break out'. In the past 6 months with the world being in that weird place for me personally, I am learning to let go of carefully laid plans for the future and embrace uncertainty with hope, vulnerability and humility.

O'ahu, second solo trip!

Have I mentioned how much I love Hawai'i? This trip I came alone because it was more of a 'work' trip (checking in daily for an hour). I believe everyone can benefit on a solo vacation, especially somewhere tropical. I spent a couple of days laying on the beach, driving through around the windward side of the island, sipping the best smoothie of my life with wild chickens, touring a royal palance, visiting the art museum, and seeing a komodo dragon up close for the first (and probably only) time in my life! Here are just a few photos of this unforgettable second trip to O'ahu.

Memories Journal #22

Finally, I have a new memory to log in my Memories Journal. I'm still glowing from my vacation to Hawai'i last month, and the rainbows, turquoise waters, soft sand and iconic Diamond Head still bring me smiles. This island captures every color of the rainbow, which is why all the watercolors are sprawled out on display. Cannot wait to go back!

Hawai'i-a long overdue honeymoon

This month, my husband and I had the opportunity to take a vacation alone to Hawai'i. We never had a real honeymoon when we married in 2004, so finally 14 years later we were able to make it happen. This year has been active with hurricanes, so I was concerned we would not be able to go. Luckily, we timed it just right and missed Hurricane Olivia. The late summer air was incredibly sweet, flowers and rainbows are everywhere! We ate a ton of pineapple, drank the best coffee, and came back sun kissed and happy. I will be back!

Hiking Diamond Head, it was very hot and crowded but worth it!

Waimea Falls, this garden was paradise but full of moquitoes!

Our final day in Waikiki, one of the happiest days too. Notice my new Tahitian Pearl purchased in Honolulu!

My husband enjoying a Mai Tai, and it was good to see him smile.

Hanauma Bay where we snorkled. Beautiful place, but I learned I am not a fan of snorkeling!

Waikiki Beach, very pleasant to swim in compared to the frigid waters of the Oregon coast.

I smiled so much this first day of coming to Honolulu!

Nuuanu Pali Lookout overlooks the windward coast of O'ahu. Bring a jacket, it's very windy up here.

My absolute most favorite place on Earth-Kailua Beach Park. Turquoise surrounds you.