Ryn Shell's Blog, page 3

Creating the Rose Courtyard and Rose Painting

#wsite-video-container-678539287202096274{ background: url(//www.weebly.com/uploads/b/1987672-1488... } #video-iframe-678539287202096274{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-678539287202096274, #video-iframe-678539287202096274{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-678539287202096274{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } I Created this Rose Courtyard for a Pensioner Couple an a Tight Budget.   The pavers, plastic chair and bathtub all came from a second hand yard and cost $60. 
The wrought iron table wan purchased at an online auction for $45.
The bamboo screening for the fence. rubber bathmat, plastic and terracotta pots, the solar light hose to fill bath (via the bathroom) plants, climbing rose supports, candles came from a garden supples store. I shopped in the clearance section. $195.
Total courtyard transformation cost $300. I included vegetables and berries in this garden, so there was a return in value with pickings of beens, carrots, lettuce, rhubarb and straberries.
Creating the rose bathroom courtyard It was a fun project. This is the courtyard at the renovators dream I helped makeover on a budget.
It was a bare solid clay earth covered with stones and rubbish when I first saw it. I have a love of garden landscaping. Nothing too small or tough to do something lovely with.  I had to stick to a low budget  o I made yh. garden recover its cost in vegetables and berries. The garden was in  northern Victoria.    

I planted a Japanese maple and a Mt Fuji flowering cherry as the two shade trees for the courtyard then added half a dozen arches to extent the garden vertically, and I planted climbing roses on these.  
The remainder of the garden is made up of perennial plantings and vegetables and for this its first year, I included some annuals to get a fast garden effect.

I brought in some beautiful large flat rocks for the courtyard flooring then searched timber yards and found a new fiber glass bath with a small flaw. I called in at the hardware store and bought hot water quality hose fittings, and then connected one end of the hose to the laundry hot water tap and passed the hose out the window and ‘hey presto,' a beautiful court yard garden open air bathroom.  

There is no plumbing drainage from the bath either and certainly no council permit for a bathroom obtained, the new owner used a 10 litre bucket and remove 10 buckets full of water from the bath and used this to water the garden after they finished enjoying a daily summer retreat home, bath, each day.  The garden benefits, it saves water and I the last tiny drop of water drains out onto the ground.

A plumber should refine the water connection situation, plumb the hot and cold water if not directly to the bath then at least outside connections in the courtyard in the event that the local ultra light plane society gets news of the open air courtyard garden bathroom and begins to take sightseeing flights over it.

The first photo is of the empty courtyard that we started with and the remaining photos are of the courtyard garden bathroom I created.

Salmon Roses by Ryn Shell Salmon Roses by Ryn Shell

In my Mooroopna Studio

Meet Valentine, the studio supervisor cat.
Happy creativity to you.   

I'm keen to teach and pass on my art skills. I've just had a week of resting a broken hand gave me time to study art lesson delivery systems. You would think that in my 70s, I'd have learned not to run. 

I'm itching to get back into my art.

Ryn Shell painting a portrait commissioned work. I'll teach you how to work in whatever art medium you prefer and to develop the skills of a portrait artist. It all takes time. One lesson builds on the next. Ryn Shell painting at Nanga bay, Western Australia, in my youth— sixty-two at the time, ten years ago. I don't paint beyond my home base these days. Too cute not to share with you straight away.

You can grab your own paints and paint flowers.
The flowers from my garden that I'll be painting tonight.
A tip for watercolorists. If you want to create a vibrant red flower, under-paint the paper with yellow first. Try that and tell me what you think? Want to paint loose watercolours—REAL watercolours? Then begin working with your paper pre-wet. 
My students painted the tonal impressionist artwork of a plaster cast and then painted a simple colour harmony that included roses. Remember this is the work of students in their first six lessons. Soon the classroom studio was a buzz with excited beginner students and paintings of Venus and the studio garden roses. The aroma of excellent coffee and rose perfume filled the studio. Yes, I know, sadly some people are allergic to flower fragrance, so this class is optional, but oh it is fun if you can do it.  A Student's block-in painting

ONLINE ART CLASSES

Meet Valentine, the studio supervisor cat.
Happy creativity to you.   

I'm keen to teach and pass on my art skills. I've just had a week of resting a broken hand gave me time to study art lesson delivery systems. You would think that in my 70s, I'd have learned not to run. 

I'm itching to get back into my art.

Ryn Shell painting a portrait commissioned work. I'll teach you how to work in whatever art medium you prefer and to develop the skills of a portrait artist. It all takes time. One lesson builds on the next. Ryn Shell painting at Nanga bay, Western Australia, in my youth— sixty-two at the time, ten years ago. I don't paint beyond my home base these days. Too cute not to share with you straight away.

You can grab your own paints and paint flowers.
The flowers from my garden that I'll be painting tonight.
A tip for watercolorists. If you want to create a vibrant red flower, under-paint the paper with yellow first. Try that and tell me what you think? Want to paint loose watercolours—REAL watercolours? Then begin working with your paper pre-wet. 
My students painted the tonal impressionist artwork of a plaster cast and then painted a simple colour harmony that included roses. Remember this is the work of students in their first six lessons. Soon the classroom studio was a buzz with excited beginner students and paintings of Venus and the studio garden roses. The aroma of excellent coffee and rose perfume filled the studio. Yes, I know, sadly some people are allergic to flower fragrance, so this class is optional, but oh it is fun if you can do it.  A Student's block-in painting

VINTAGE Montblanc Noblesse Bordeaux Fountain Pen in Use

Using a MONTBLANC NOBLESSE BORDEAUX fountain pen cartridge filler eighties slim line design very rare color as a dip pen with assorted fountain pen inks and PanPastels I create commissioned artwork for a book cover using the colours in the lesbian flag. Dark orange signifies gender non-conformity, orange signifies independence, light orange signifies community, white represents unique relationships to womanhood, pink signifies serenity and peace, dusty pink signifies love and sex, and dark rose signifies femininity.
My artwork may be viewed and prints purchased from my website http://wwweInkPour.com
Tess Shelley, the commissioning author's books my be found soon at http://www.TessShelley.com

Choose to Shine

"Choosing to Shine: The Art of Writing with Fountain Pens and Watercolors"
In a world where technology has taken over much of our communication, it is easy to forget the joy and beauty of writing by hand. Whether it is a simple note, a heartfelt letter, or a masterpiece of calligraphy, the act of putting pen to paper can be a form of self-expression and creativity. And what better way to express oneself than by using a fountain pen and watercolors?
A fountain pen is not just any ordinary pen. It is a tool that allows the writer to have greater control over the flow of ink, resulting in smoother and more refined lines. Fountain pens come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each with its own unique writing experience. And when paired with high-quality ink, the result can be truly breathtaking. Whether you prefer a bold, black line or a soft, pastel hue, the wide range of ink colors available is sure to inspire your writing and artwork.
Watercolors, on the other hand, offer a completely different level of artistic expression. The transparent and vibrant pigments blend and interact with each other, creating a depth and beauty that cannot be achieved with other media. When combined with the fluid lines of a fountain pen, the result is a harmonious and stunning composition.
But how do you choose the right fountain pen and watercolors to match your style and preferences? There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are a few tips to get you started:Fountain pens: Consider the size and weight of the pen, as well as the type of nib (the metal tip that comes into contact with the paper). A fine nib is great for precise lines, while a broader nib allows for bolder strokes. You may also want to consider the filling mechanism (cartridge, converter, or eyedropper) and the material of the pen (plastic, metal, or resin).Ink: With so many colors and brands to choose from, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. Start by choosing a color that you love and that complements your writing or artwork. Then, consider the type of ink (dye-based or pigment-based) and the properties (fast-drying or waterproof, for example).Watercolors: Like fountain pen ink, watercolors come in a wide range of colors and brands. You may want to start with a small set of pan or tube watercolors to get a feel for the medium. Then, you can expand your collection as you grow more confident in your skills.In conclusion, writing with a fountain pen and watercolors is a beautiful and fulfilling experience that can bring out the best in you. So why not choose to shine by adding these tools to your creative arsenal? You never know what amazing creations you will come up with.

Glass Inkwells

Hand made inkwell -purchased in France. Date unknown. The Meaning of Limited Editions and Special Editions
I've always been skeptical of Special Editions and vague Limited Editions. Take the The Franklin Mint's promotion of "Limited Edition", as something "limited to x amount of firing days," without revealing if there are fifty or fifty-thousand pieces of that designed item in the kiln, or even multiple kilns fired on each of those firing days. They certainly produced as many of each item as they believed they can saturated the potential market with. Nothing limited about that, just a sales pitch to make the items appear to be scarce.

You really do need to read the fine print and not just the advertising blurb.
A Limited Edition is usually a small, quality production run, with each item numbered with its number within the edition quantity, of an in demand item. The certificate is usually signed my the maker, for it to be of real value and not just a marketing gimmick.

Buying limited editions in the hope of getting a financial return might be more fun than buying lottery tickets and the odds, if you buy wisely, about the same.
Hand made inkwell -purchased for Ryn Shell's 74th birthday.I have two beautiful heavy glass ones that I treasure. I use one to hold the tall bottles of Robert Oster ink if I am using it as I'd not dare take the lid off those bottles of ink otherwise. Have I mentioned I like squat bottles for ink? Occasionally, I will make ink soup in the other ink well if I want to evacuate unused ink from a pen.  I usually use every drop of ink before refilling, and my ink wells are primarily decorative.
The Divine Discontent of Artists
I'll tell you a story I always told my advanced students.
Two artist's who'd known and admired each other's work for year met again after a long gap in time. They asked each other how their art was going and each was shocked when the other spoke about feeling they were not painting well. Both disbelieved that it was possible the other wasn't creating great art, so they agreed to view each other's latest works and honestly appraise it.

The consensus of opinion was, they were not painting badly, it was a case of their expectations had increased. One thing that trained art tutors stress is that you will never be 100% satisfied with any work. You have to leave it though, and put all you feel you learned from creating it and all that you'd have done differently if you could, into a future work.

Accept that if you did create perfection what a handicap that would be. You'd probably give up, knowing perfection isn't repeatable. Better to feel you haven't achieved what you are after as yet and keep trying for it.

The French art masters call it "mécontentement divin" The divine discontent, and believed t is normal for an artist to go through phases f hating the artwork they are doing, or even a body of work. Understanding that all artists suffer from this (I certainly do) helps.

Getting into the confident mood to move ahead believing you can do it is essential and we just have to do that. Your work is EXCELLENT. That horse was labour intensive to create, you look at it and remember some of the fatigue. in creating it and aren't as aware of the beauty of it as those who come across it—not seeing the hours of labour behind it.
Take care my friend. You are truly gifted.
My Vintage Glass Inkwell Collectable Finds
What pen preferences, if any have you developed over time?My preference isn't a brand it's a type. I prefer pre-owned or discounted, if I can get a better price for the quality that way. I would not pay over $500. and rarely pay more than $200. 

I want a generous size piston fill, preferring a pop cap, but will tolerate a screw cap. As good price for quality performance in my main consideration I tend to own mostly black and gold trim preferred or classic coloured pens. I dislike bling and marbled plastic looking bright coloured pens. For a nib, I like a Japanese medium gold nib or German fine gold nib best but will go down or up one size from there for the right pen. 

I once preferred lighter fine pens. I now, having learned how to glide the pen on the paper, I prefer a heavier weighted pen. 

I have gone off vintage pens with bladders, and anything that doesn't have a generous size piston fill, plus all my light weight pens. I should do another sell up, but I still keep all my pens inked up and in use and don't wish to pay out more to have pens I'd prefer to the ones I have which do the work I need done adequately. I also try to avoid selling physical goods, it's inconvenient.



What to do when the Muse doesn't visit?
To be a writer, you must write. You need a goal, an action plan to achieve the goal, and a to do list focused on the action plan.
Muses are optional.

The muse sees you at work and will often join you, which helps the words low faster. But the muse would rarely arrive and sit down to do the job with you. It’s persistence, not muses, that achieves success.

Set your goal, then create the action plan you need to do to achieve that goal, then just do it. One foot it front of the other on those days when it is hard to keep going. We all have an area in our lives where we need to, “Just do ti!”

It’s even okay not to write if you don’t want the goal enough to carry out the action plan. But, you can get through those slumps by just sticking with an action plan even when it’s difficult, if you want that goal enough.

Maybe ask yourself if you are chasing a goal that excites you enough to do the work.
There’s no failure in modifying or changing the goal to one that motivates you to do the work.

6 Video Ideas to Grow Your YouTube Channel as an Art Teacher

Continuously monitor and analyze your channel's performance metrics, such as views, click-through rates, and conversion rates, to identify areas for improvement and optimize your ad strategy.
Getting Started As A YouTube Channel
I work full time, creating art demonstrations and tutorials to share my past 65 years of training and experience as a professional artist with others. It's great to give back at this stage of my life.
I'm physically disabled, so my gallery exhibition days are over.  There is no reason why my teaching should cease given how mentally alert I am, and it's great to stay useful.
My personal ideas on how to creat a successful YouTube channel is to offer something that is either entertaining or educational; If possible, do both.

Every YouTuber knows there is a tremendous amount of competition, new channels are joining up every day, probably every minute of every day.  So, how do we stand out and gain a foothold on YouTube with so much competition?
"6 Video Ideas to Grow Your YouTube Channel as an Art Teacher:
Tutorials,
Time-Lapses,
Reviews,
Q&A,
Showcase,
and Collaborations" Tutorials on different art mediums:
Create videos that demonstrate how to use different art supplies, such as acrylic paints, watercolors, or charcoal.

Time-lapse videos:
Film yourself creating a piece of art from start to finish, and then speed up the footage to create a time-lapse video. This can give viewers an interesting glimpse into your creative process.

Art supply reviews:
Make videos reviewing different art supplies, such as paints, brushes, and canvases. This can be helpful for viewers who are looking to purchase art supplies. Q&A videos: Answer frequently asked questions from your viewers about art, such as "What is the best way to start a painting?" or "What are some tips for improving drawing skills?"

Student showcase:
Share the works of your students and create a video that gives them a chance to showcase their talents and skills, you could also give tips and feedback on how they could improve their work.

Collaborations and challenges:
Collaborate with other artists and create videos that challenge yourself and the viewers to try new techniques and styles, this will give a sense of community to your channel.

Consistency:
Remember that the most important thing is to be consistent in creating and uploading new content, and engaging with your viewers.
To create a successful YouTube Art Channel:

Continuously learn and reevaluate your YouTube channels on a regular basis, whether it be annually or every six months.
Assess the effectiveness of your YouTube thumbnails compared to your competitors.Keep your YouTube channel branding current and in line with the topics you are teaching.Regularly update your video titles to ensure they are relevant and searchable.Identify what unique value you can offer that your competitors cannot.Emphasize your unique differences in your content and branding.

"Maximizing Your YouTube Potential:
The Power of Short, Informative Videos for Art Teachers" "Want to grow your YouTube channel as an art teacher?
Look no further than short, informative videos that provide quick tips and techniques for your viewers.

By focusing on one small tidbit of information at a time, you can keep your videos tight and engaging, while also providing a wealth of valuable information for your audience. From demonstrating unique ways to use specific paintbrushes, to comparing good vs cheap art supplies, the possibilities are endless. And with minimal video editing and no rambling, you can produce 2-3 videos a week,.

The Hub and Spoke Method IS A Successful Video Release Formula For a YouTube Channel.
The Hub and Spoke method is an effective way to organize and optimize your YouTube content to grow your audience and increase engagement.

In this method, you create one central "hub" video, which is a longer and more in-depth video that covers a specific topic or theme in great detail. This serves as the main source of information on the topic and provides a comprehensive overview of the subject matter.

The "spoke" videos, on the other hand, are shorter videos that focus on specific aspects or subtopics related to the main topic covered in the hub video. They are designed to provide more specific information and to supplement the information provided in the hub video. The spoke videos can be shorter and more focused on specific aspects of the main topic that the hub video is covering.

The idea behind this method is that the hub video acts as a central source of information that viewers can refer to for a comprehensive understanding of the topic, while the spoke videos provide additional information and context that viewers can use to supplement their understanding of the topic. By creating a series of spoke videos, you are able to reach different audiences with different needs and interests, while also promoting engagement and interest in your content.

To further promote engagement and interest in your content, it's important to include calls-to-action at the end of the spoke videos that direct viewers back to the hub video. This creates a sense of continuity and engagement and encourages viewers to explore your channel and watch more of your videos. A good example of this is inviting viewers to check out the full tutorial or the latest tutorial on your YouTube channel.

For example, one painting YouTube channel concludes every time-lapse short with an invite to view the full tutorial on her YouTube Channel, or to view the latest tutorial on the YouTube channel. This allows her to promote her other videos and keep viewers engaged and interested in her content.

In conclusion, the Hub and Spoke method is an effective way to create and organize YouTube content that can help grow your audience and increase engagement. By creating a central hub video and a series of spoke videos that supplement the information provided in the hub video, you can reach different audiences with different needs and interests, while also promoting engagement and interest in your content. And by including calls-to-action that direct viewers back to the hub video, you can create a sense of continuity and engagement and encourage viewers to explore your channel and watch more of your videos.

Watch your channel grow in no time. Try it now!"

Bjelke-Petersen Dam Tourist & Recreation Park, Queensland

Painting the Crimson Rosella in Copic MarkersThank you to Philip Woodhouse, wildlife photographer, for allowing me to use his photo
of a crimson rosella as reference for my artwork.  How it starts. What are you creating? Morning Tea.
Tuesday morning at the Petersen Dam Tourist & Recreation Park is morning tea time and the home made cake courtesy of the management, was delicious.  It was a great chance to chat and meet neighbours and the temperature was a pleasant low to mid 20's today with a clear blue sky, no wonder we have stayed on in this lovely part of Queensland. 
This is the roomy community kitchen facilities it also features a huge fireplace for social evenings during winter.
Crimson Rosella Artwork by Ryn Shell
Daytime


Aside from the caravan sites there is camping sites and cabins with water views.  Dusk is a beautiful time to stroll with our dog Indigo on the lead as there are many pretty faced wallabies at the top of the hill and the sun setting over the water and the waterbirds coming in to nest in the shoreline trees is a nature lover's paradise. Crimson Rosella Art Gifts, Prints and DecorThis is some of the views in front of our caravan. No wonder we are in no hurry to leave.
​ These cheeky birds tried to steal our steak off the BBQ.
 
​The friendly staff are very knowledgeable with the local area, activities, tours etc. For further information about Bjelke-Petersen Dam Tourist & Recreation Park please contact the friendly Managers on 07 4168 4746  or email

​bjelkepetersen@skymesh.com.au
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  or visit  South Burnett Regional Council 

Dusk View from the Caravan I'd love this for the Caravan Decor or the Holiday Home

Banker Ponies, Outer Banks, Lighthouses, and Fish of the Day.

Become a Patron! Ocracoke
Not What You Might Expect: Part 2 
By
LF Gillis After snapping a few pictures of the Banker ponies, (see Part 1)  my family and I decided to see what else was on Ocracoke. We only had about four hours until our ferry came back, which turns out is not that long when you’re sightseeing.

   The Outer Banks are known for their lighthouses. Not wanting to get caught disobeying the 15-minute parking limit, we hurried down the boardwalk, with my daughter and husband anticipating snapping a picture from the top. No such luck. Tourists are not allowed access to the inside. But it was pretty scenery.
I'd love this in a beach house or mobile home.Life is a Beach Cushion: Ryn Shell art.The one thing that stood out most to me, was the amount of foot and bicycle traffic on the island. Most people don’t even bother to look before crossing the street. It must be nice living without noise pollution. Even the air smells better. That lifestyle seems easy to embrace, until you think about the difficulties that go with shopping or moving furniture without a car. Perhaps someday… According to Ocracoke’s website, there is one gas in the village, but we didn’t see it. Golf cart rentals seem to be a pretty lucrative business, probably because of all us out of shape tourists.

   We moved on, carefully obeying the 15 mile-per-hour speed limit. They villagers are proud of their pirate heritage. In the late 17th century, North Carolina was a haven for piracy and runaways and even protected them. Symbols and names alluding to that part of history are plastered on businesses throughout the village. I find this ironic, considering these pirates would attack merchant ships and loot businesses, only to sell the goods at cheaper prices.

   With only hours left before our day was over, we decided to check out one of the local restaurants. My camera batteries had died, so we were forced to stop at a store to buy more. What luck, someone blocked us in. Nothing to do but eat at the restaurant next door. It turned out to be very fortunate, indeed. Jason’s served some of the best food we had eaten that entire trip. We loved the beach décor; with wooden slats shingling the bar, foreign money taped to a wall near the cash register, and distressed wooden furniture. The humor of the menu items reflected the fun atmosphere of the place. Who can resist a wrap named “The Hippie” or a sandwich called “Uncle Bunkle?” But don’t let the cutesy names fool you. These guys are serious about their seafood. According to the menu, the fish of the day is whatever is caught that morning. You can get it anyway you want it; grilled, fried, or blackened. I particularly loved the fact that the owner, Jason, was manning the grill. I wouldn’t have noticed, except for the fact that every time he gave an order, it was carried out immediately. Somehow, he managed to stay on top of the kitchen and the dining area. The place was as busy as I’ve ever seen a restaurant, but no one went unseated for more than ten or fifteen minutes. Extra chairs are stacked in a corner of the front porch, which also serves as an overflow dining area. The place maintains an A-100 rating, which is no small feat, considering how busy it is. ​Here are the photo stages of the painting being created.  With full bellies and a limited amount of time, we headed back to the ferry landing. Thirty-minutes to spare, allowed us time to do a little more sightseeing. Curiosity sent me behind a government building, where I spotted a duck sitting on a nest. She seemed a little upset about my arrival, so I snapped a few pictures then left.

On the ride back, we were joined by some locals who came across with bicycles as their only mode of transportation. I regret not talking to them, but it was getting late and my mind could barely form coherent thoughts. So, I sank into my thoughts, daydreaming of living in a quiet place where there was no traffic, or sounds other than what nature provides.
   The horn sounded, I awoke from my dreams, and then we were on our way home again. Next time we’ll come prepared to stay a few days. I really want to take my time exploring that island. I understand that there’s a fort and a ship graveyard around there somewhere. Life is a Beach T, art print by Ryn Shell. Do take a look at this author's interesting books, if you love a plot that isn't created to a predictable formula, see below, if you love a plot that isn't created to a predictable formula. As a fine artist, you know how I value originality, so I'm pleased to do what I can to assist such talent.
   ~   Ryn Shell author and artist. About the author, LF Gillis​LF Gillis is a writer and novelist who is deeply connected to the great outdoors and nature. You will experience small-town southern states of American life through this author's beautiful writing. The most amazing thing is the way the characters in a Gillis novel interact, and the author's gift for showing the full depth of their feelings. The stories below are gripping and inspirational reads that I would highly recommend. ​LF Gillis's latest novel,  Inherited Behaviour  is a must read.
LF Gillis is a great writer.
Sylvia-Ann doesn't care that Hank Washington is the darling of the county. She wants to be his exclusive darling. Inherited behaviour isn't easily shaken aside, and Sylvia-Ann's chief opponent isn't the girls who throw themselves at the handsome baseball star, it is the Felix family's legacy. She must claw her way forward to grasp the basic primal needs that others take for granted.

Inherited behaviour threatens to implode her dreams of a secure home and a happy family life with the man she adores.
 
As far as everyone is concerned, Hank Washington leads the perfect life. With Sylvia-Ann he can escape everyone's expectations and be himself.  What's the point in being adored by many if he can't have the one person he cares about most? Her inherited behaviour and a community ganging together to force him to live his father's dream might cause Hank to play the worst game and make his worst decision.
 
She can't change her past, but can Sylvia-Ann alter her future? Or is the Felix family legacy ​unshakable.
​

Ocracoke Island, Outer Banks, Scenic Byway

Ocracoke
Not What You Might Expect: Part 1 
By
LF Gillis Framed Sand Dune Print by Ryn Shell For years I have been hearing about the wild ponies of North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Known as Bankers, the ancestors of these ponies were brought to the barrier islands by the Spanish in the 16th Century. Five-hundred years later, and they still survive and thrive. What isn’t fascinating about these animals? They exemplify American freedom and perseverance.

   So this year my daughter and her boyfriend, and my husband and I decided to see these amazing animals. My neighbor, a native Carolinian, suggested Ocracoke Island.
​
[image error]  Normally, it takes me months to plan a trip. I like to study the area, search for hotel deals, and minimalize all surprises. But this trip was rushed. We planned it in less than a week. I hate traveling during holidays. There are too many people on the road for my liking, and things get too rushed. But due to work schedules, we had to take this trip during the 4th of July celebrations. We also planned visiting other areas during that same trip. With all my vacationing rules broken, we headed packed up the car and headed out on what we hoped would be a grand adventure.

   We booked passage on the longest ferry route in North Carolina—from Cedar Island to Ocracoke. That was an adventure of its own. No one in my family had ever ridden a ferry, so we had no idea what to expect. It was a dream that I’ve been having ever sense I saw the first advertisement for the North Carolina Ferry System.

   Strange how I knew we were moving, but at the same time, I felt like I was standing still. The only other boats I have been on made me feel that way. But then again, I had never been on anything this large. Perhaps it was the size of the vessel or the slow speed at which we were moving.

   As I stood on the crowded deck, I began to understand why, at one time, people thought the horizon was the end of the earth. With nothing but the sky and the water in my sight, it did seem that way. I felt so insignificant. Everything here was bigger and more powerful than me. I lost all sense of direction.
​


The sun seems stronger on the water. The only relief from it was the passengers’ lounge, the passengers’ cars, and the deck under the lounge area. I wasn’t about to attempt the climb up to the passengers’ lounge. The steps are steep and I’m afraid of heights. I could have asked for help, but my pride wouldn’t let me. What about the part of the deck shaded by the lounge area? Great choice, but I’m worse than most kids when it comes to not wanting to miss anything. I spent most of my time in the sun, hoping to spot a dolphin or whatever might pop up out of the water.

   I returned to my car and opened all the windows. The constant wind helped to keep me cool. With the waves gently rocking the huge vessel and nothing to occupy me but my thoughts, I soon relaxed and fell asleep.

    Excitement electrified the air and woke me, as the horn sounded, introducing our arrival. Everyone was ordered back to their cars. I was already there so I took out my camera, snapping shots,

    [image error] Sand Dunes Ryn Shell art print gifts Once we were guided off the boat, we went in search of the famous wild horses of Ocracoke Island. To our disappointment, we found them living within the confines of a pasture. At first, I was upset. After all, I can see horses in pastures in my own neighborhood. Then I read the information plaque. Due to accidents with humans, these animals have been under the protection of the National Parks and Recreation Department, since 1959. Okay, Bankers have been raised in captivity longer than I’ve been alive. There are a few islands where they do run wild and free, but human transportation is restricted to foot traffic only. Maybe next year.

Click here to read part  2:
About the author, LF Gillis​LF Gillis is a writer and novelist who is deeply connected to the great outdoors and nature. You will experience small-town southern states of American life through this author's beautiful writing. The most amazing thing is the way the characters in a Gillis novel interact, and the author's gift for showing the full depth of their feelings. The stories below are gripping and inspirational reads that I would highly recommend. ​Click to set custom HTMLClick to set custom HTMLLF Gillis's latest novel, Inherited Behaviour is a must read.
Don't be put off by the dark cover. LF Gillis is a great writer.  Sylvia-Ann doesn't care that Hank Washington is the darling of the county. She wants to be his exclusive darling. Inherited behaviour isn't easily shaken aside, and Sylvia-Ann's chief opponent isn't the girls who throw themselves at the handsome baseball star, it is the Felix family's legacy. She must claw her way forward to grasp the basic primal needs that others take for granted.

Inherited behaviour threatens to implode her dreams of a secure home and a happy family life with the man she adores.
 
As far as everyone is concerned, Hank Washington leads the perfect life. With Sylvia-Ann he can escape everyone's expectations and be himself.  What's the point in being adored by many if he can't have the one person he cares about most? Her inherited behaviour and a community ganging together to force him to live his father's dream might cause Hank to play the worst game and make his worst decision.
 
She can't change her past, but can Sylvia-Ann alter her future? Or is the Felix family legacy ​unshakable.
​ I highly recommend LF Gillis's novels.
This is and honest and unpaid testimony. 
   ~   Ryn Shell author and artist..