The Sanctuary

Ever since I was a small child, I always had my own corner of the world. Having shared a bedroom with my brother all my life, that sanctuary was usually my half of the room or the fort I had built behind our backyard fence. As an adult, my sanctuary was always my bedroom, since I usually had a few roommates. At 39 years old, I finally have the bedroom I've always wanted. The top of the walls are painted blue to represent the sky and the ocean and the bottom of the walls are the color of sand. The accent colors are yellow for the sun and red for the sunset. I did the two sunset paintings on the top of my armor and the two charcoal sailboat sketches above my bed. I took the photographs in the frames next to my bed. Drew bought me the lighthouse prints on either side of my window when I moved to Maine 11 years ago. My friend's mother created the painting of Two Lights (which in real life is 10 minutes from my house) that is above my window. I also took the photographs that are inside my armor. Most of you know I have an obsession with Aquaman, which is why his poster is on my walls. He guards the ocean. My new friend Nikki made the red throw pillows on my bed. My roommate stained my dresser and the table under the window is one that I found on the side of the road 6 years ago. I painted it and cut and stained the wood for it. Since all the curtains I priced were too expensive, I used twin bed sheets and curtain clips. I like that my room not only reflects the beach and the ocean, but it is filled with artwork made by friends of mine, as well as a few of my own pieces of art. The set of shelves houses my Aquaman collection, my favorite books, a few of my favorite childhood toys that I've kept throughout the years. It also houses my Army medals and photgraphs from my days as a soldier. Above my door is a great sign I bought in Newport RI and on top of the door frame is a toy Army man. I always have those in my room. That one watches over me. I hope you enjoy the pictures of my room. And know that if any of you ever visit me from out of state, this is where you'd be sleeping. I saved a special surprise for the last picture, which is an amazing piece of art created for me by my dear friend Marnie.



When Marnie visited me, she presented me with one of the most amazing birthday gifts I have ever received in my life. She made the glass and the beads. This piece or art basically tells my life story and represents me as a person. You'll notice the "Shrine to Madonna" on the top. She has the quote from our favorite song by Siousxie and the Banshees: "Come take this hand at twiight's door. I'll meet you there we'll share the moonlit floor." There are homages to my Irish heritage, my catholic upbringing, my love of elephants, Aquaman and the ocean. There are homages to my being a writer and my love for music. This picture does not do the artwork justice, but if you ever get the privilege of seeing it in person, you'll be as blown away as I am each time I look at it.I'm glad everyone enjoys the blog. Thanks so much for taking the time to read it. Enjoy Autumn!