Ever since I can remember, I have been fascinated with the sea. My earliest memories take me down to 26th Street Newport Beach, to my Grandparents beachouse. It was here where I fell in love with the ocean. I can still smell the roses from that little yellow seaside cottage, and remember waking up early and walking barefoot in the sand to explore the shore for treasures.

A lifetime of memories have been made along the shoreline for me. I capture those special moments in each piece I create, reflecting upon the love my parents have shown me, the cherished memories of love and laughter my sister's have given me, the nurturing touch of a wonderful mother and grandmother, and the pure joy my four young children have blessed me with.

I had once heard that a person’s entire life can change in a single moment. That truth is where my story begins. Meet Me Bye The Sea was created during the hardest time in my life. The storm hit hard and I found my life in pieces, like a boat shipwrecked on the shore. When I found land I realized calm was now an island, far across the sea and far from my heart and mind. Still, I began picking up the pieces. Some were lost forever. Others were damaged beyond repair. There are a few I am still looking for.

I began painting words on the wood, along with phrases and pictures. Anything I could think of that represented hope and moving forward. I put them up on my walls as a daily reminder. Somehow thousands of other generous souls bought their favorites and put them on their walls, too. Some have simply served as oars. I’ve paddled with them fiercely as the sets begin breaking.

Somehow though, a dream was born within that sadness, something beyond me. A need to find meaning in my work always. A desire to just keep paddling through the sets.

Sometimes life brings early goodbyes and it is hard to see where God is in the midst of the trial. Never lose hope. Faith is the anchor holding fast to the promise that all things work together for good. The tides of life will rise and fall, and circumstances can define us and limit us, if we allow them to. They can also refine us into becoming who we were made to be. Seek your purpose. Find the strength to pick up your broken pieces and use them in a way that is meaningful for you.

Above all, always expect the miracle. Life's most beautiful treasures can be found in the most unexpected places.

“Meet Me Bye The Sea…” he whispers softly in my ear, and so it is here I go to experience his abounding grace and perfect love.


Shelly