Tommy’s mom left for Ireland on Sunday, so we didn’t get together this weekend. On Sunday, I decided to go to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
I renewed my Art Museum membership after a year since 2020 was a lost year, 2021 was half of one. I didn’t want to renew in 2021, just in case. 2022 seems a bit safer and I thought it could be good for dates.
The Art Museum upgraded and expanded. I was amazed at all the work that had been done. The bottom levels weren’t recognizable and of course I had to take tons of photos.
I loved the photography exhibits and I got lost in the exhibits for an hour and a half. I took tons of photos and many of the displays gave me some ideas for shoots I’d like to do. I want to borrow dad’s Olympus SLR camera, but some film, and shoot at the skate park.
This was a beautiful exhibit. When I was taking photos of the books about grief (I’d like to read them and wanted the pictures for the titles), a woman liked my idea and started taking photos too. We started talking about grief and I mentioned that I was writing a memoir/creative non fiction about a project that started because of grief. Intrigued, she wanted to hear more about the Happiness Box Project and I told her. I told her the writing of this book has been an exercise and a half, but I take my time. She loved the idea. She told me about her project, the Solstice Project. She writes a negative thought or event down, then burns it. I liked her idea too. Felt really great to talk and share today.
After, I went to the skate park and I met these two gals. I didn’t have my skateboard, but they gave me some pointers, tips, and advice. I overthink. I’m super grateful and they let me take photos. Same with the bikers. It was fun at the skate park on Sunday. I also met Theo, who is visiting from France. He is taking a skate tour of the US.
I’m going to go back next Sunday, with my skateboard, pads and helmet, and see if I meet others who can show me how to skateboard.
The Happiness Box Project 
Hi, Jessica Marie!
I know the Philadelphia Museum of Art is one of your favorite places to visit and learn. I remember how it looked in the past, I am blown away by the dramatic changes that have taken place since you were there last. It was fortuitous that you struck up a conversation and compared notes with another visitor about the subject of grief. You met more friendly folks at the skate park, including skateboarders and bikers, and you got some helpful tips. The pictures reveals that it was a beautiful day to be outdoors. I hope you get a chance to head back out there again this weekend because you are truly in your element and always meet nice people.
Enjoy the rest of your week, dear friend JM!
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