Ashawna lived in Topanga, where I live, for about a year in 2008-9.
It was a year of getting to know my new friend, who as we all know was a very complicated person. She was there, step by step, as I created the Lala portraits. She'd often sit in my studio while I worked. We had fun hiking, shopping for her new home, just hanging out at my house. My young kids were oblivious to her "otherness" and Ashawna felt comfortable with us. Topanga welcomed Ashawna too. We often went to Cafe Mimosa, where this photo was taken for their photo wall. I am right now sitting in the same place that photo was taken. Ashawna was in a curious way, very grounded, and could offer clear insights, especially after many cups of coffee. Ill miss you Ashawna. With love, Lori