inspiration Monday: a simple dream

     We are always exhorted to "dream big!" We worry about "settling" and selling ourselves short. Yes, I love a good goal and challenge. But let's not forget the charm of a simple dream.
      I was taking a run/walk in a very nice neighborhood recently, when I heard the unmistakable sound of kids having fun in the water: lots of splashing and giggles. By very nice neighborhood, I mean palatial compounds that loom grandly behind tall walls, mansions with exquisitely landscaped entryways, unobstructed ocean views, sweeping driveways, costly ornamental copper gates swirling with dolphins/waves/palm fronds, and long Hawaiian names proclaimed in iron letters on the stone wall.
      Upon hearing the splashing and laughing, I immediately thought, "kiddie pool." Then I took another look at the carefully maintained landscaping and realized that behind that sturdy stone wall I was more likely to find a stately pool instead of an inflatable piece of rubber filled up with warm water from the garden hose. I had to laugh at myself. I love the good things in life -- and sometimes they come in the humblest forms.
     

 The inspiration: Katie Holmes

My take: 

 Tommy Hilfiger shirtdress, Macy's

Softspots Ventura sandals, Ross

 

     While I was taking these photos, a guy scared the bejeebers out of me. I had set the camera on a rock wall along a curving path, so it seemed he appeared out of nowhere. As I snatched up the camera, he said placidly and pleasantly, "Getting some nice pictures?"  I managed to answer, although I think I turned as pink as my shoes. Perhaps that's why I managed to give my booktalk in an extremely calm manner in class right afterwards ... I guess I had used up my blush quota for the day.