Hal Stowers and his wife B. J. live a life they designed together as partners. While many people bemoan their fate, these two lovers have discovered the way to make their dreams come true while doing what they want to do. It all begins with their commitment to each other, and the end product is Hal's art. His art is beautifully simplistic, as you can see on the cover this magazine. He finds nature's essence and renders it understandable to all. For the past three decades, Hal has been capturing the Florida environment, while B.J. has been recording and documenting his work and life, a Boswell to his Samuel Johnson.

They have dubbed themselves the "Life Blenders," and in response to the multitude of people who have questioned them over the years about their lifestyle and how they have kept their creative juices flowing in bad times, as well as the good, they have just published the story of their love, life and philosophies, along with examples of Hal's work over the years. Hal's reputation is well established and well earned. In 1987, the Pinellas County Commission proclaimed him their native son and a "National Treasure." In 1993, a three-month long major retrospective of his work entitled, "The Gulf to the Caribbean," was held in Tallahassee at the State Capitol during the legislative session. In 1993, he was recognized as a "Distinguished Landscape Architecture Alumnus" by the Department of Landscape Architecture of the College of Architecture at the University of Florida. In 1995, Hal was elected a full member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

He is a master of mediums that range from watercolors to monumental stainless-steel sculptures. While Hal has been doing all this, B.J., who has a degree in Fine Art from the University of Florida, has served as his creative assistant, recording his intimate creative moments through her photography and writing.

Their new book, Hal Stowers & The Art of Life Blending", bridges memories and adventures. It is filled with Hal's images, which are in sharp contrast to our often chaotic urban surroundings. Each piece of art is full of his sensitivity and appreciation for our natural environment. The rest of the book is full of their personal secrets for gaining a joyful and meaningful life.

It is a story of adventure, accomplishment and dedication. The book is beautiful and well illustrated with B.J.'s photography in addition to Hal's creative works of art. But, it is much more than just a coffee table book to be admired. You will want to read, re-read and even study it. For within its pages, these two talented individuals openly and freely expose, discuss and share their inner emotions in an intimate manner most of us would never consider doing. Through their journey, there is a lesson for all of us. The lesson is to pursue your dreams no matter what obstacles may confront you. You can't get to the moon without reaching for the stars."