Ahhh, to relax like this…

On September 22, 2013September 13, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS, TRAVEL2 Comments

Is there anything better than to wake up early, have fabulous coffee, chat with friends, have a wonderful breakfast, go for a hike, stop for a snack, sit and read, go for another hike or two, or three… come back to the inn, take a shower and head to dinner… nope. I’m hear to tell you there is nothing better! To relax like this is truly a luxury!! Hope you have your luxury relaxation some time soon!

There is something mesmerizing about this!

Hey! Happy first day of Autumn… WOOHOO, my favorite season begins!!

F L A S H B A C K

O N E Y E A R A G O… Autumn in Wiscasset, Maine!

T W O Y E A R S A G O… Foods that should never cross your lips – #6!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Monhegan on my mind…

On September 21, 2013September 12, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS, TRAVEL8 Comments

Oh, how I have Monhegan on my mind… going to miss the nice cool air, the seagull’s morning wake up call, the fabulous food, and our friends! We hope to be there next year!

C A N N O T W A I T ! !

It will be that much sweeter next year!

Catch you back here tomorrow!!

*Monhegan Light… a wonderful Monhegan setting!

On September 17, 2013December 28, 2025 By Barbara StroudIn ART, Maine2 Comments

*UPDATED WITH TRAILER LINK… the previous Vimeo link was not working… (You can also Google “Monhegan Light Trailer” or click the link below…)

You’ve got to watch this movie trailer. I swear this movie is going to be a winner! I just recently found out that a group of students from Ohio University’s School of Media Arts & Studies created a film based on a short story by Richard Russo. The story is about a cinematographer who travels to Monhegan Island to confront a painter about his relationship with his deceased wife. There is an actual story line. The scenery is beyond stunning. I have to give them a thumbs up on all levels. For those of you who have been to Monhegan, this will transform you back to that special place.

Update 2025: while the trailer and website for this film are no longer available (therefore links didn’t work) I’ve removed them from this page…

Update 12/2025: I heard from Frederick Lewis, who along with his students, produced this film – he provided updated links, thank you!

“I did find the trailer here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcDzVUsKUXE

And the full film is here: https://vimeo.com/65193261 “

I pulled this from: lpfilmforum.com (no longer an operable link for this film)

More than a short film, really, “Monhegan Light” approaches the mid-length genre at almost thirty minutes running time. The film was produced by a team of Ohio University students, led by Associate Professor Frederick Lewis (who executive produced) and directed by Joe Battaglia, an OU student. Money was raised to produce the film ($18,000) which was shot on location in four days on Monhegan Island, Maine.

For those of you who are familiar with Monhegan you will notice Alison Hill‘s paintings, as well as her yard and her living room (with cool orange sofa)! This group did such a fantastic job. They raised the money, they worked hard and I really want to promote them!

If you’re interested in behind the scenes movie making, watch this video they made… you will see gorgeous scenes of Monhegan around18-19 minutes into it. Marcus DeAnda did a great job as the main character. So believable and he had so much emotion. Perfect casting. Great job to all the actors, Joe Battaglia (Director and Producer) and all the people behind the scenes. Its amazing how much work is involved. Read more about them all on their Facebook page!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

Image via Monhegan Light Facebook...

Peace and beauty, what more could you ask for??

On September 15, 2013September 6, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS, TRAVEL4 Comments

Monhegan… ah… am I ever going to stop posting photos? Well, I just had to, we have some friends who are there this week, next week and the following week! I can’t wait to see their photos! I bet the weather will be perfect! This photo was taken (I think) when we hiked along trail 1… past Dead Man’s Cove and back up into the woods… it is M A G I C A L ! Some are there to paint, others to show family around a wonderful place they have yet to visit, and another who is going to read, relax, swim and hike! You always feel better once you’ve visited Monhegan, it gets your priorities back in place. Really!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

F L A S H B A C K

O N E Y E A R A G O… Island Inn… Monhegan Island, Maine!

T W O Y E A R S A G O… Foods that should never cross your lips – #5!

Over the river and through the woods… well kinda…

On September 7, 2013August 29, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn TRAVEL6 Comments

When you see this image don’t you just want to plop yourself into these woods and walk around… I do! I’m not sure if this was taken in Cathedral Woods or another area on the island, but it is heaven to meander through the woods without a care in the world. The silence is something you won’t forget. Good, sweet silence. You just don’t hear silence too often… Over the river and through the woods… but no river. When you reach the end of the trail you do hear and see the crashing surf and that is such a treat! It makes you happy… here’s proof… this is my mom, she was thrilled, just look at that smile!

Go out and be happy! Catch you back here tomorrow!

Paris Preview with Rhett Thurman at the Sylvan Gallery… tonight!!

On September 5, 2013December 8, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn ART, Featured Artist, TRAVEL2 Comments

"Beloved Cliche, III" by Rhett Thurman — “Beloved Cliche, III” by Rhett Thurman

The Sylvan Gallery on King Street in Charleston, SC is having a Paris Preview with artist Rhett Thurman. If you’re in the area you won’t want to miss this!

Visit Rhett in her studio tonight (September 5, 2013) at 241 King Street from 5 – 6PM for a preview and sale of her latest work… and then…

Meet at the Sylvan Gallery at 171 King Street for a reception, preview and sale from 6 – 8 PM!

It’s always nice to see where artists paint, what their space is like… and of course to see Rhett’s new work!

If you aren’t in the area… check out Rhett’s older work as well!

I t ‘ s S T U N N I N G !

From her trip to Monhegan…

"Room with a View" by Rhett Thurman — “Room with a View” by Rhett Thurman

as well as her Charleston paintings!

"Queen Street Grocery" by Rhett Thurman — “Queen Street Grocery” by Rhett Thurman

Catch you back here tomorrow!

F L A S H B A C K

O N E Y E A R A G O… Charleston Restaurant Week September 5-16, 2012!

T W O Y E A R S A G O… Husk Restaurant in Charleston, SC is the top new restaurant in AMERICA!

All images via TheSylvanGallery.com!

Wouldn’t you like to be here… listening to this??

On September 1, 2013August 26, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS, TRAVEL6 Comments

Wouldn’t you like to be sitting on a rock, here, in this fabulous place called Monhegan? Located about 10 miles off the coast of Maine sits this pristine little island called Monhegan. It’s a dream come true to spend a few days listening to the ocean, watching the waves, not answering a phone or checking messages. Hell to some I guess, but heavenly to us!

If you’re the type of person who loves the outdoors, doesn’t need to dress up to be happy and loves the sounds and sights of a beautiful rocky coast, this is your place! If you ever get the chance to visit… do! It’s a classy place, full of amazingly talented individuals. You won’t believe the number of famous artists that have painted on this tiny island.

Happy Memories – Catch you back here tomorrow!

FLASHBACK

O N E Y E A R A G O: Rockville, SC photos: What a beautiful place to take a drive!

T W O Y E A R S A G O: Foods that should never cross your lips… #3!

The Bud Stop… San Francisco… GORGEOUS flowers!

On August 25, 2013August 20, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn TRAVELLeave a comment

Aren’t these flowers just gorgeous? This photo was taken years ago while Fred and I were in San Francisco, CA. This is THE BUD STOP… wildly beautiful flowers! They’re located on Union Street right near Fillmore… Speaking of Fillmore Street… best place that we ate lunch… THE GROVE FILLMORE, I had done a previous post on this place, but it’s worth mentioning again!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

F L A S H B A C K

O N E Y E A R A G O… Majestic Crape Myrtle’s in Charleston, SC

T W O Y E A R S A G O… Foods that should never cross your lips – Part II

Now this would make one heck of a rooftop painting!

On August 24, 2013August 20, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn ART, THOUGHTS, TRAVELLeave a comment

San Francisco, CA… gotta love it!

This would make one heck of a challenging rooftop painting wouldn’t it? Whew, not sure I would want to give it a whirl, but I would enjoy seeing the progression of an artist painting a similar scene. It facinates me how there really is no right or wrong way to paint. I see people break the “rules” all the time and they’re awesome artists… what works for one doesn’t always work for another… I like knowing I have options, ha ha…

Have a good weekend! Catch you back here tomorrow!

F L A S H B A C K

O N E Y E A R A G O… Featured Artist… Romel de la Torre!

T W O Y E A R S A G O… What to do with your garden’s bounty? VEGGIE PASTA! Dinner this evening!

A “bouquet” of flowers in the most unexpected place… that’s Monhegan for ya!

On August 17, 2013August 13, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn TRAVEL4 Comments

Walking around Monhegan you run across the most unexpected beautiful sights… butterflies everywhere, gorgeous sunsets, happy flowers, the sea and a bouquet every now and then appearing in a spot you just wouldn’t think to see one. It puts a smile on my face every single time.

Catch you back here tomorrow!

My post from one year ago… Featured Artist… Stuart Fullerton!

My post from two years ago… I accept this award… hee hee… and I pass it on!

Monhegan, ME stroll…

On August 10, 2013August 10, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS, TRAVELLeave a comment

It’s the most beautiful place, ever! Water surrounding this small island on all sides. The creative people who live here all year long… the creative people who visit make it a fascinating place. Not just for the breathtaking scenery, but for the friends you make along the way. We’ve made many, and they’ve become like family to us. It’s neat to keep in touch all year long and then catch up once we’re all on the island. It’s a place of hiking, eating, ocean watching, photo taking… painting… and just being. When was the last time you sat down (without TV, radio, cell phone, etc.)? You can do this on Monhegan and be completely entertained. The thought of a TV doesn’t even pop into your head… we’ve met some of the coolest people ever.

If you ever get a chance to go… don’t miss the opportunity! You will become crazy like me and post photos like you live there, ha ha…

Tell me a place that you’re passionate about! I love to hear of new areas!!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

My post from one year ago: Burton Silverman, artist!

My post from two years ago: Oven roasted cauliflower – you won’t believe how good this is!!

The Spencer Gallery in Charleston, SC just got a new artist…

On August 9, 2013December 13, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn ART, TRAVELLeave a comment

The Spencer Gallery in Charleston, SC is loaded with all kinds of painting treasures. If you’re ever in the area I recommend taking a peak around! Bridget Jennings is new to the Spencer Gallery, and very excited to be a part of it!

She’s got a great website, so check it out! Here are a few paintings from her Charleston/Spencer Gallery collection:

"Stewart Fine Art" by Bridget Jennings [bridgetjenningsartist.com] — “Stewart Fine Art” by Bridget Jennings
[bridgetjenningsartist.com]

I love this little painting! It’s so indicative of Charleston’s old buildings… it’s a new gallery in town…

"St. John the Baptist" by Bridget Jennings [bridgetjenningsartist.com] — “Cathedral of St. John the Baptist” by Bridget Jennings
[bridgetjenningsartist.com]

If you’re ever in Charleston, you must pop in to the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist church, it’s a beauty with so much history! She did a great job with this painting!

On another note… I wanted to wish Bridget a very Happy Birthday… Nifty, nifty, someone’s almost – ugh,never mind, hee hee! Bridget and I have had good times over the years, you may have read about the Orange Julius and popcorn days… It would be great if we lived closer… the South Carolina to Michigan drive is misery, especially if you do it non stop, by Ohio I’m ready to jump out of a moving car… don’t laugh, i’m serious!

100_5519 — Bridget capturing inspiration from Shem Creek – Mount Pleasant, SC

Happy Birthday little sister… Catch you back here tomorrow!

My post from a year ago… Italian Cream Cake recipe from Cooking Light… WHOA!

My post from two years ago… MANY HAPPY MEMORIES!

A fabulous painting by Tim Bell… walking away…

On August 4, 2013December 8, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn ART, Featured Artist, THOUGHTS, TRAVEL10 Comments

Monhegan, ME. Artists everywhere. I. Mean. Everywhere! Everyone is busy painting away, doing their thing, and let me tell you , there are some incredibly talented artists who’s work just blows you away! We met artist, Tim Bell (pictured) on the island years ago (I’m thinking 2006?!) and have remained friends with him through the years, and have made new friends through him. He’s such a talented, brilliant artist. Tim had so much information to share that I had to go get a pen and paper. Great, useful information. One year we watched him paint this painting… and as he walked away with it… we had to have it. So it’s pretty cool that we have this painting… good memories. We love every one of our paintings, they’re all special to us in one way or another. This is a perfect example!

Have a great Sunday! Catch you back here tomorrow!

Island Sunset… Monhegan, ME.

On August 3, 2013July 31, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn THOUGHTS, TRAVEL2 Comments

Ahhhh, about this time every year I really get “home sick” (if you can call it that… since I’ve never lived there) for Monhegan. There is nothing like a Monhegan sunset! I would love to catch a sunrise, I’m definitely up early enough, I just haven’t been able to give up my coffee… yet! This photo was taken during dinner at the Island Inn (and I am longing for good fish dinner from that restaurant… the best ever!), I had to excuse myself during dinner to run outside and get a quick shot. How stunning is this?

Ahhh, see you just went on a mini vacation… you feel better already, don’t you? I know I do!

Catch you back here tomorrow!

And… the dining room is open… as Norah Jones sings “Come Away With Me”…

On July 21, 2013December 9, 2013 By Barbara StroudIn ART, FOOD, THOUGHTS, TRAVEL6 Comments

Dining Room at the Island Inn Monhegan, ME — Dining Room at the Island Inn
Monhegan, ME

Every time we hear Nora Jones sing, we think of the Island Inn on Monhegan Island, Maine. Every. Single. Time. One of us will say “the dining room is open”. One year, they played the same Nora Roberts CD, over and over. Not complaining. We rather enjoyed it. Matter-of-fact we looked forward to it the following year, and I’m guessing someone who worked each night couldn’t take it anymore! This dining room holds lots of special memories for us. We’ve met some wonderful people over the years. We’ve had wonderful breakfasts with some and long dinner’s with others. You know that comfortable interesting conversation that lasts long into the night? It’s rare to run into cool people like that. Monhegan, ME allows you to spend time with others because there isn’t a lot to distract you… no TV, radio, spotty cell coverage. All are blessings.

Special memories indeed! This photo was taken in 2008. The paintings in the dining room that year were by Alison Hill…

Catch you back here tomorrow!