The North Carolina beaches influence my paintings giving me wonderful insight to both color and calm imagery. I have always loved art...... Especially painting...Although for most of my life I have written poetry...a turn of events has brought me to find myself more often with a paint brush in my hand... and as I continue to paint I find it giving me such a sense of freeness along with another way to express my talent.

I paint seascapes...sunrises and sunsets...I find them the most exhilarating challenges of painting. I love blending the colors to create just the right mood of the day...I love the beach and the sound of the ocean singing to the shore...Nothing is more peaceful and stimulating than the beach.

As a writer, I write poetry that focuses on my paintings as well as women's issues. Writing in my own genre of “ creative imagery .” I bring a unique juxtaposition of words that breathe life into each page. Exploring life's journey, I writes from personal experience as well as the experiences of others. My work offers solace, empathy and understanding to my readers.

I have published two books.

Keeping Abreast written for a friend, deals with the emotions of breast cancer; from discovery through treatment and ultimately to acceptance.

Ramblings of the blue-haired lady, is a fun collection of pieces written about everyday life through my eyes and the experience of friends.

I am originally from Long Island , New York . I consider myself a 25 year native North Carolinian. I have been working for Wake County Public Schools for the past 22 years... that is where I spend my days. “Working with first graders is an interesting and rewarding experience. Helping children grow into themselves offers many challenges...and some of the most important challenges I have had... Giving a young child confidence to make mistakes and the opportunity fix and grow from them, as young as they may be in first grade, sets the standard for their future success.” Children are the most valuable resource of the world and I love being part of their development.

I have worked in state institutions for retarded children and done several years in special education during my years at Wake County . Working at a year round school has given me to opportunity to have time to paint and write just about all year long. It gives me the chance to find my center.......and create.

To see current projects and book offerings go to: www.rosefirestone.com

To order books go to: www.lulu.com query rose firestone