As for the Simple Life. It definitely has nothing to do with Paris, Hilton that is.

Over the past couple years, I’ve been contemplating the importance of simplicity and the treasure of friends. I took painting back up again. What a great release to just melt into the paints and canvas. I revel in my gardening, what limited time and space I have to make that happen. Fresh veggies and herbs. Whole foods are real nourishment to our bodies. Good wine. To sit on the deck, feel the wind come off the hill, smell the air, sip the vintage. Friendship is a blessing.

My life is a constant stress and buzz. The country property is my sanctuary. One I first sanctioned, but now share. To work on the land is therapy. Better than a suit behind a desk taking notes.

So, next year I will start my travels to explore what little piece of land on an island or third world country I can find. I think it’s a dream, but to just live in a smaller, open house in a little village/town where kids and neighbors can drop in and I can visit the local produce stand daily sounds like home.

Jenny was standing in my living room recently and asked “how do you live so modestly?” My response was sheer shock AND feeling complimented. I could not see what she was seeing, but she pointed out that I don’t have a ton of knick knacks and crap lying around. I spend a lot of time thinking about things I need to buy to finish my house, but then looking around me and seeing all the hard work I’ve done to get the few things I have (building my bed, refinishing my coffee table, etc.) I have spent the past five years getting rid of things I didn’t need and so much appreciate what I do have. That includes my friends. We build friendships and they are sacred. Not to be taken for granted. Just like life.