photo taken by Laura James

Nothing refreshes me quite like a visit to the Ocean. Specifically, a very clear blue Ocean with sugar white sand! I frequent our family Florida retreat as much as I can, soaking up the relaxation and inspiration so that I can emerge fresh, renewed, and ready to tackle what's next. It's really the only way for me! 

I loved pulling out my camera to capture this shot at Sunrise this morning. The mix of colors was just what I was hoping for. I am continually inspired by the Ocean and the Beach! It was also fun to vary from my normal Product photography to Landscape photography. It's always nice to try a new route :)...I am already counting down the minutes till the Harvest Moon tonight to see what I can capture!

Where's your Vacation State of Mind?

I recently came across this abstract painting by the very talented Danish artist, Trine Panum and I thought...I bet that's what my brain looks like on the inside!

This painting's abstract fabulousness completely speaks to me, and when I wondered just why, I came to this conclusion after reading the Artists's own quote which certainly resonated with me: 

'I respond and create in spontaneity.
The paintings are emotional outbursts and energy discharge - a constant search of chaos and aesthetic order ' . Trine Panum

It's so true. I cannot reign in the creativity in my brain or plan when it will strike. Sometimes it comes in different ways- some days jewelry design, other days writing...and some days, making anything that has nothing to do with jewelry! There really is no way for me to plan. I have to just go with whatever impulse I am given. Learning to go with this flow has taken many years, but I now can embrace the creative chaos- and be grateful when it comes...no matter what form that may look like. 

I often have people ask me...how did you find your passion? Well, Jewelry is one of them, but not the only one. The only way I would have found that I had even one was to experiment and try out new things. I must have had 20 hobbies or obsessions as a kid, always trying out whatever seemed like a good idea at the time. Photography, Guitar, Painting, Skincare, Scuba Diving, any form of Design...you name it, I tried it!

The cool thing is that each one may not have been what I wanted to do all day long, but at some point I have needed to call on them in my business. Photography, especially- I can't tell you how tough it is to photograph small scale items like Jewelry and how many years it has taken to feel like I have it somewhat figured out. 

Point being, try something. Seek out the new- you never know what is going to stick. How do you know when you've found a passion? You have tunnel vision when you do it, with no idea what time it is. Then, you've found it. So, give it a shot- go find your passion. Everyone has one- they just have to look for it.

Let me know what passions you have realized in the comments below - I'd love to hear!

ox-Laura