When I shot this portrait the afternoon of August 13, 2025 I wanted attention to be drawn to the sign on the door where my eyes were directed. The words on the sign brought back memories of my late parents who provided family with a loving home sweet home when growing up and the freedom to express ourselves such as what I hoped to do in this self portrait along with my poetry below what the words on the sign meant for me as an American. I think of my late mother...Life's lessons she did teach; to respect one another...While "America's "home sweet home" supported "freedom" of speech, written in songs and poems. I think of my late father... steering the ship o'er water. He told us many a good story...A Great Lakes sailor, was he; where Sunsets reflected God's glory ..."From Sea to Shining Sea." My thoughts as a daughter ...In tribute to our Mom and Dad, how they brought family laughter..when cruel words made us sad... May peace on earth reign o'er war...as meant by sign on old door!