Kindness

"There is a kindness that dwells deep down in things; it presides everywhere, often in the places we least expect.
"The word kindness has a gentle sound that seems to echo the presence of compassionate goodness. When someone is kind to you, you feel understood and seen. There is no judgment or harsh perception directed toward you. Kindness has gracious eyes; it is not small-minded or competitive; it wants nothing back for itself. "
An Excerpt from To Bless the Space Between Us: A Book of Blessings by John O'Donohue


On Saturday afternoon, I settled down with a cup of tea and was enjoying catching up on my favourite blogs. Zsa Zsa Bellagio's blog I have very recently started following.  I find her topics interesting and varied.


Imagine my surprise to find that I was her  featured post of today http://zsazsabellagio's blog

 

This was totally unexpected and I was impressed at how she  researched and found out so much about me.  I am most grateful for this honour Zsa Zsa.

I emailed Zsa Zsa to thank you. Her response was:- " I really try to feature all the wonderful ladies and artists and followers who participate in the blog! ( especially those like you- who take the time to comment and enjoy! 

Have you experienced kindness from an unexpected source?

Matisse+ Martini's= Health

Plein Aire Cottage Artists Helen, Violetta and Mary Rose with Organizer Extraordinaire: Sue Murbach

Artists: Violetta, Mary Rose and Helen - Donated Triptych "Let's Sail Away"

Clearwater Free Clinic serves the uninsured in our area.

Martini's + Matisse Gala is am much anticipated soiree.
This year, was a sold out event and  attended by some 800 guests.  All primarly in the medical profession.  More than one hundred artists donate a piece of art, which is carefully juried.  The inaugural event, some years ago,  showcased  " Featured Artist"  Sophie Matisse, the great grand daughter of French painter Henri Matisse.
Sophie's abstract painting was in high demand that evening.

Artists: Mary Rose Holmes, Helen Tilston and Sophie Matisse

Each year we have donated paintings to this worthy event.  Last year the organizers selected the three of us as "Featured Artists".(Plein Aire Cottage Artists)  This  prestigious  honour we graciously accepted.
Last evening Martini's + Matisse 2012 commenced at 6.00 p.m with the Sponsor's Cocktail Party and introductions.

Happiness everywhere

Incredible caterers, En Garde

Glowing table and guitarist singer songwriter Will Cooper

Mary Rose Holmes, Dwight Holmes and Mike Tilston

Bonefish delicious shrimp dish

Beautiful guests

Guests

Martini Bar and master martini shakers from Bonefish Grill

Famous Chef Scott from Guppy's Restaurant and his helpers

Guests

The Artists donate their paintings.  The Event costs $150. per person.  Three tickets are given and one can choose to put all their tickets in a giant martini glass located beside each painting. At 9.15 p.m. the draw takes place at each painting.  To be eligible for the "Featured Artist" painting,  patrons must purchase tickets at $50 per ticket.  We were thrilled to see our "Giant Martini Glass" was full to capacity.  The winner of "Let's Sail Away" triptych was:  Dr. Kimberly Quick.

The evening went all too quickly and we finished in the courtyard with coffee, desert and cigars.
Plein Aire Cottage Artists Mary Rose and Violetta :

How was your weekend?