The Transamerica Pyramid Building wrapped in fog, viewed from Montgomery and Union, Telegraph Hill, San Francisco.
"Be bold and mighty forces come to your aid. Until one is committed, there is hesitancy; the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness. Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elemental truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to one that would never otherwise have occurred. A while stream of events issue from the decision, raising in one's favour all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamed would come his way." - E.H. Murray, Scottish explorer, Himalayan expedition.
Some fun-filled adventures coming up this summer, involving travel and leaps of faith.
A leap of faith requires courage. It means considering the worst-case scenario, but still going ahead. To me, trusting a positive outcome implies belief in yourself; in the ideas of magic and possibility and in the kindness of friends and strangers alike. A daring leap of faith encourages the universe to shift to help realise one's goals. Taking a risk suggests: "I'm willing to try - let's see what we can accomplish together!"
Despite high hopes, it can be a little scary to jump off the deep end. I've just bought a new camera, because my next leap of faith involves collaborating on a book with one of France's premiere antiques dealers. This is a woman of impeccable taste and elegant style, who happens to own - and sell - some of the most wonderful antiques and collectibles imaginable. Hmmm, this could be dangerous. (Note to self: Do not bring any antiques home with you!) Shooting begins Wednesday...wonder if I can figure out how the new camera works by then?
The second leap of faith begins next week in San Francisco. First, there's the BlogHer conference at the St. Francis, where I'll be sharing a room with this inspiring poet and meeting these two amazing women in person, among other fascinating bloggers.
And that fabulous gypsy Alex and I are hosting a Sunday brunch for more than a dozen creative, talented women, most whom we have never met. Then I'll stay in San Francisco for another ten days, spending time with my dear friends Tangobaby and Studio Wellspring, who already have a few adventures planned, at least one involving magic tricks!
I'll also be seeing my friends Susan, Deirdre, Brenda Walton and Joan, who owns the fantastic spend-all-afternoon-there store Timeless Treasures (photos in an upcoming post). Plus I'll be meeting several Bay Area blogging friends for the first time. And my daughter Jordana may fly out for a few days. My head is spinning, just thinking about all the excitement!
Now to sort out this camera...
Have a wonderful trip! Congratulations, and best of luck with the book. You are a true inspiration.
Posted by: Jocelyn | 12 July 2008 at 03:24
I know you had/are having a wonderful time on your San Francisco adventure. I wish I could have joined you but gas is a killer and the two hour drive would have been prohibitive. Lord, will this gas insanity ever end?
Wishing you well on your upcoming collaboration. How exciting. I have to go now and visit some of the highlighted blogs you have led us to.
Annie
Posted by: Annie | 11 July 2008 at 23:45
my stomach hurts that i won't be able to join you for brunch on sunday. however, i can't wait to see you in person!
Posted by: kristen | 10 July 2008 at 18:45
How exciting about the book!! Can't wait to see you next week. whoo hoo!! xx, deb
Posted by: JP/deb | 10 July 2008 at 17:06
Tara, I'm green with envy at all your exciting plans. And you get to spend time with some of my favorite bloggers, too.
I'll be thinking of you all wistfully and fondly over the next weeks.
This banner is really breathtaking :)
Posted by: Becca | 10 July 2008 at 02:58
I love the juxtaposition of the older buildings with the high rises in the background...and you're worried about taking photos...you silly girl ;-)
see ya soon! xo
Posted by: susan | 09 July 2008 at 21:30
I send beautiful thoughts your way, as you take your leaps of faith.
Posted by: Christina | 09 July 2008 at 20:30
When life is good you want to squeeze out every drop. I think you are doing that -- and I'm leaping for joy that your photographs are going to be part of a book about antiques -- a marriage that was meant for you!!!
Posted by: sherry | 09 July 2008 at 14:33
kudos on the book deal!!!
i won;t be at blog-her, but i do how we get a chance to meet when you are in SF
Posted by: Lynne Rutter | 09 July 2008 at 08:24
I just can't believe we are actually going to be in the same country, let alone the same room!!! I am sooooo excited I can hardly stand it!!! I'm very nervous, but excited all at the same time - can't wait to give you a great big hug!!!!
xoxoxo!!!
Posted by: holli | 09 July 2008 at 03:54
Leaps of faith, music to my heart!! I have lept so many times, into all different paths and places... So, cheers to the new camera (and incredible collaboration) !! I hope you love it!! And cheers to the wonderful fun you are about to have!! Although, I dare say, any moment with you has some wonderful exciting adventures in store, I am sure!! Even a trip to the market from the looks of your beautiful photos!! Lots of love!! xoxoxo
Posted by: A Fanciful Twist | 08 July 2008 at 21:13
Congratulations Tara !! The book deal sounds great !
and all the travel projects as well....
Oh you're so lucky to meet all these bloggers. I just know it's going to be a wonderful exciting event.
Have LOTS of FUN !!
Besos
ps: just read your post with the Lorca poem :-)
Posted by: My Castle in Spain | 08 July 2008 at 18:51
Congratulations on your new book deal! That's terrific! Imagine the beauties you will come across... And your future travel plans also sound exciting. You're having a fabulous summer, aren't you? There's so much inspiration waiting for you...and of course YOU will be inspiring others. :)
Posted by: susanna | 08 July 2008 at 18:30
GREAT photo! Love SF! Haven't been the since my 13yr old was 4yr old and in a wedding... I think I am long overdue for a visit!
Thanks for visiting my site!
Posted by: Fifi Flowers | 08 July 2008 at 17:54
*sobbing*
i want to go TOOOOOOO!!!
:)
get lots of pictures for us so we live through your
adventures:)
hugs for you my darling girl:)
Posted by: maddie | 08 July 2008 at 17:43
New ventures and adventures - your post is just bubbling over with your excitement, Tara -- and I feel excited for you! Go you! LEAP!
We'll be applauding and cheering you on, all the way~XOXO
Posted by: tinker | 08 July 2008 at 15:20
What amazing experiences await you! And I am sure there are some waiting you don't expect! Your post bristles with excitement! Good luck to you in your ventures!
Posted by: Gemma | 08 July 2008 at 13:07
It all sounds like it's going to be so wonderful. And I'm sure it will exceed all expectations. Have fun! Beautiful banner too. And photos.
Posted by: Kay | 08 July 2008 at 11:31
Thank goodness the cat is out of the bag at last. The VERY BEST of luck with your new photo/book project I just know it will be wonderful - enjoy every minute.
This Trip of yours sounds wonderful and think what you have to look forward to at the end of it - ME! :)
Posted by: Di Overton | 08 July 2008 at 07:53
I'll be at Blog Her... Really hope we get to meet...You are one very Popular girl!
Posted by: wendy | 08 July 2008 at 06:45
Your words about trust, daring leap of faith and taking a risk are so true, but at the same time so untrue(!) with the everyday reality. Keep Tara thinking and sharing with us all these spiritual ideas.
Posted by: Philip | 08 July 2008 at 05:43
Yay for traveling! But an even bigger yay because it is to San Fran!!! Wow! Tara you'll have a blast. I wish I could attend the conference, that would be a thrill. I'll think of you having fun while I'm having fun in Punta Cana. Post photos of your adventures for us, especially all these meetings! It is all very exciting.
Love the banner, it is amazing, just wonderful!
xoxo
Posted by: Gillian | 08 July 2008 at 03:15
leaps of faith are so refreshing. i heart your new banner ~ so perfect for july! and i can't wait to have you back in the bay....counting down the days. xo!
Posted by: studio wellspring | 08 July 2008 at 01:55
Definitely with you on all the excitement! Can't wait to have you here! besous xxoxo
Posted by: Gypsy Alex | 08 July 2008 at 00:16
Where to begin! Congratulations on your incredibly exciting book venture (or adventure?) I know you'll be more than up to the task, for you've never ceased to amaze so many of us with your brilliant photographs so far! And the trip sounds like the best -- I know how much you enjoy SF, and this sounds like it will be one of the best trips ever!
(This is a splendid quote! Inspirational for all!)
Posted by: jeanie | 07 July 2008 at 23:34
Boy, you're in for some fun! How exciting to be on the verge of being stretched in all kinds of new ways!
Thrilling!
Becky
Posted by: Wonders Never Cease | 07 July 2008 at 23:04
It is all wonderfully exciting!!! You and your partner will write an amazing book I know Tara!! It will be fascinating to learn new things about antiques. Also, empowering to start using a new camera! Can't wait to see the book! I will think of you/ Jordana while in San Francisco. I smile thinking of you with old and new wonderful blogging woman. SO EXCITING!
I could tell that it was Madelyn's dreamy work on your banner! It's a ten! It matches the poem by EH Murry to me.
Sometimes life is so happy!
xox
Constance
Posted by: rochambeau | 07 July 2008 at 22:31
Love the quote and love the many projects on which you will embark. I have every confidence that you will accomplish all beautifully. Sending you hugs from the Florida Keys.
Posted by: Yoli | 07 July 2008 at 21:39
well now there you go... a small gesture of kindness results in a another gesture which no doubt will ripple along to affect some other person long past the memory our first friendly exchange.
just like as you say so perfectly in the beginning of this post:
"A leap of faith requires courage. It means considering the worst-case scenario, but still going ahead. To me, trusting a positive outcome implies belief in yourself; in the ideas of magic and possibility and in the kindness of friends and strangers alike. A daring leap of faith encourages the universe to shift to help realise one's goals. Taking a risk suggests: "I'm willing to try - let's see what we can accomplish together!"
i love this! thanks for linking up with me :)
xox
Posted by: robin bird | 07 July 2008 at 20:25
I'm very happy for you Tara. Give Deb a hug for me, OK? Sounds like you will be very busy and it will be tough finding time to get to the sticks. I'd come to you in a heartbeat if I could but I'd love a phone call to hear your voice, OK?. :) XXOO
Relax and take it all in. Enjoy!
Posted by: Tammy | 07 July 2008 at 19:55
Hi sweetie,
Can't wait for your next visit, just right around the corner!
I will be sure to check out all of your lovely links, too. I can't wait to see what else you'll be up to (when you're not with me, of course). And I hope Jordanna does come out to visit.
That photo of the fog creeping in is so great.
Posted by: tangobaby | 07 July 2008 at 19:41
Yes, yes, yes, these are very good leaps of faith.
xoxo
Posted by: Colette | 07 July 2008 at 17:26
You certainly are one busy, lucky girl.
So many travels, a new camera, a book collaboration.
Happy travels, Tara.
Posted by: Karen Cole | 07 July 2008 at 16:46
wow. wow. wow.
so much stuff going on, it sounds like you have some AMAZING adventures planned.
x
Posted by: chocolate covered musings | 07 July 2008 at 13:45