At the age of eleven, Claire Blatchford knew she wanted to be a writer. She has published more than twenty books and taught the deaf for twenty-seven years. Art was in her family all along, but it wasn't until she was sixty-seven that she discovered pastels. This is her first book for which illustrations came first, the written content later. As she sees and hears it, the world is alive with shapes, colors, and words to be encountered, befriended, worked with, and celebrated. Although made for her grandchildren, who inspired it, this book invites the child in you, whoever you are. Come and see loved places others have created or found nearby or in dreams, imaginations, or meditations. Words of explanation, poetry, or whimsy accompany each pastel. Claire is still hearing marvelous stories of special places and finding more of her own. Beauty is indeed everywhere! Even more than that, it is present when we link up and share our glad discoveries. Enjoy the beauty of this book.