Thank you so much for this detailed response!

You are right; the work doesn't represent anything, has no deeper meaning. I do this for fun, because I like the colors and the sparkle, and it relaxes me. However, I DID TAKE YOU on a journey and made you think, and even write a comment. Mission accomplished, wouldn't you say?

As to the "somewhat aesthetic" quality of the work, it's a girly thing, but you're in good company. My hubby doesn't much like the ritzy-glitzy-glassy stuff on some of my pictures, either. Not one to mince words, he calls it "gaudy" and I call him a grump. So thanks for <i>your</i> diplomatic and courteous turn of phrase ;-)