Crystal the Artist

Still Relevant DON'T ROCK THE BOAT  The left. The right. It's the war we fight. What have we become when we've lost our sight? When we close our eyes and ignore the cries We don't see their value because we believe the lies. I know better. It's you who's wrong. And we'll die for our song. We'll carry our tune to the grave as we heap on shame. It's a hard job, but someone's got to do it. So we cast the blame. Stand down, and not too tall unless you're first weak and small and low... low enough to see. the. need... Sit down and dwell there, and smell there, and feel there. Cast your heart completely bare there. Then speak up for the oppressed, the poorly dressed. They are hungry,  so make sure you feed them. What have we become when we ignore the cries, and we enjoy the lies that feed our wars, and not our children? What have we become when we close our eyes, and fai...

These precious dreamers, as they lay, Their bright eyes soon will seek the day.   A mother's love is grounding care, And a steady presence means Father's near.   Safe and sound, in peaceful dreams, Slumber there, Do not weep.   With love surrounding and every need met with gentle, calming peace.   It is this moment we catch in time, A remembrance of life's small size.   We pause here And simply breathe.  These precious dreamers, are all we need.

  Life. Oh, life. Here I sit, once again. My head, A constant monologue of thoughts writing themselves into a beautiful narrative. And yet, When I sit, They insist on playing hide and seek. Like a knowing parent, I sigh, relax and smile. My words are not far. I will not fret. I will rest,  And when they are ready, I know They will return to me.

When I was younger I trained to compete in track and field events. I say that I trained because when it came to my time to run the hurdles I always chickened out. In my head there was a picture playing on repeat. Mid-jump my foot catches on the hurdle and I tumble to the ground unable to finish the race. It is regrettable to say that I never gave myself the chance to realize a different ending. Within the last 12 months I have seen some amazing things happen in my life. My dance with mental health will always ebb and flow, but now I can fully embrace just how strong and capable I truly am. The last year had its challenges standing tall like hurdles set for a race, but this time I firmly planted my feet on the ground ready to run. And I didn't just run. I flew over each marker without misstep. I made it past the finish line unscathed. Here I am in a new season with my mental health, a proud veteran of a war nobody else could feel. The relief and the lightness of release into somethi...

The sweet momentum of love and harmony radiates powerfully through her.    She shines and sparkles in cascading light--fully reflected through the prisms of her beauty.     Her spirit and her body a place of refuge,   for more than one who calls her mom.      Together, they will embrace the future while delightfully dancing to the rhythms of laughter.   It is through a woman that not just a child, but a family, is born. 

Yesterday was for road tripping to Eugene on a last minute call as second shooter for a wedding. While I can't share the images, I do have to say that the drive down to Sweet Cheeks Winery was absolutely stunning. I love rolling hills and mountain views, farmland, and acres of green in luscious Oregon.     The wedding was spectacular and so sweet. There was a first look with private vows between the bride and groom, a food truck, a mariachi band, and a lively bunch of friends and family. The photos are amazing and I wish I could share more.     Here are just a couple because I have to give a nice shout out to Sweet Cheeks Winery . So fun being a guest with a purpose last night!