Life in Focus

Today

Today I'm picking up my camera to search for and focus on the beauty in what is sometimes a world that just doesn't make sense.

Today I'm thinking about Boston and the tragedy at the marathon...and hoping for peace and healing.

Today I'm grateful to see this beautiful sky.

Today my son went back to school after a few yucky days with the flu.

Today I'm hoping that no one else comes down with it!

Today the temperature is supposed to be a sunny 57 degrees which means it's time to open the windows and let in the fresh Spring breeze.

Today I'm dreaming about our outdoor spaces and I'm getting inspired to get out and  play in the dirt, making things beautiful and colorful again.

Today I'm thinking about our college student as he prepares for his finals and I'm so looking forward to having him home for the summer.

Today my sweet Corgi is following me wherever I go and begging for a walk to the park.

Today the grass looks a little greener.

Today I'm finding the beauty and counting my blessings.

An opportunity to learn

Over the weekend, I cashed in a super special birthday gift from my husband and it was simply amazing. National Geographic Traveler came to our area to teach a day long seminar on travel photography and I had the incredible opportunity to learn from them!

I was so excited and eager that I was in my seat and ready to go 30 minutes before it even started!  I soaked in every word and was in awe of the gorgeous images shown on the giant screen in front of me. There were even moments during the seminar when I was so touched by the beauty of their work, that I literally got a lump in my thoat and felt chills on my arms! It was in those moments, that I knew I was in the right place.

The day completely exceeded all of my expectations and I walked away with my head just spinning with ideas and inspiration for my own photography and stories. I'm so grateful to have had this opportunity and I just can't wait to dive in to all that I learned!

As I laid in bed last night, my mind just racing with possibility, I was reminded of this quote by Steve Jobs:

Find something you love so much, you can’t wait for the sun to rise. 

I do believe I've found it.

Here's to a passion-filled Monday!

 

In Focus Friday

Everything is here to rejoice the soul of the human visitor...the fresh salt tang from the sea, silvery dawns, and the reddest of sunsets.                                                 ~ Freeman Tiden

Happy Weekend!

Once Upon a Walk :: The Snow White Edition

One of the wonderful things about our beautiful state of Michigan is it's four distinct seasons. They each offer us a different perspective and the opportunity to begin again with fresh eyes. However, this particular Winter has been sooooooo long! As in, one of the longest and coldest and grayest that I can remember. Or maybe it's just that I'm getting older and can't seem to keep warm - we're talking socks to bed, people! Anyway, Spring is on it's way and it is my favorite of the four because of the way we get to witness the world around us literally come alive after a very long and peaceful slumber.

A couple of weeks ago, we had a surprisingly Spring-like day where the sun came out and the temperatures rose past freezing. It was so beautiful and very much appreciated! As soon as my husband got home from work, we jumped in the car and headed out for a walk in the woods. As we walked, I couldn't believe how the forest started moving with activity. The animals came out of their hiding places as if to step out on stage and perform the "Spring is Finally Here" dance. The birds sang and followed us, almost like they were playing peek-a-boo as we moved down the path. It was so thrilling and I remember thinking that this must be what Snow White feels like! And I do believe that these sweet creatures were just as excited as we were.

Every walk with nature tells a story and I love to listen. Spring is finally on it's way and we are ALL very happy about that!

Beginnings

Let choice whisper in your ear and love murmur in your heart. Be ready. Here comes life.  

~Maya Angelou      

Today begins a brand new adventure for me and I could not be more excited! After a very long time away from my little blog that I've missed so much, I made the choice to come back. I listened to my heart and in these past months away, I've found a fresh new perspective for a life in focus and I can't wait to share.  If you found your way to this space, welcome! I hope you enjoy your time here as much as I enjoy sharing my stories, inspiration, passion, and heart with you! 

I'm ready! Here comes Life in Focus...

In Focus Friday

I've been away..adventuring, playing, working, exploring, and appreciating the little joys when I find them.  Hope you are finding joy this summer too.

In Focus Friday

We are all missing our boy scout who's off having wonderful adventures...and we are ready for him to come back home to us.  Yes, just one more day of missing.

Have a joyful weekend!

Happy Father's Day!

Feeling so grateful for this man...that gave me a start in this life and that continues to be a teacher, friend, and hero to me.  The look on his face as he's watching me says it all "pride, joy, fatherhood".  I am blessed to be his daughter and cherish every minute that I get to spend with him.  

Happy Father's Day!

Inspired Spaces :: The Garden

I've been thinking a lot about my word for this year and how it has helped me consciously live a happier, more energetic and creative life.  I now look for this inspiration in my daily routine and have been working on surrounding myself with those things that speak to me, fill me up, and make me happy. Ultimately, I want to come home to inspiration every time I walk in the door...even when the laundry is piled high and the dishes are dirty. All of this has translated to different areas of my home that I call "Inspired Spaces".  Periodically, I'll be sharing glimpses of these spaces that I've created on my blog and would love to hear about your inspired spaces too!

Our 1st summer vacation weekend was spent watching fireworks, eating ice cream, and digging in the dirt creating our very special inspiration garden. 

We wait all year through changing seasons including very cold, stark winters to see this space come alive again with vibrant colors, sweet smells, and singing birds.  I love to see how it changes from year to year and also how it remains the same. At the end of an active summer day, it's where I usually find myself sitting with a cold drink while I soak up the inspiration and energy this little garden provides.

It doesn't take a lot of space to enjoy this touchstone to nature.  A simple pot with colorful flowers and a special adornment that you find at a flea market will do.  To sit by it daily and feel grateful is good for the soul and highly recommended!

I hope you enjoy an inspired Tuesday!

Summer is here!!

The school year is over, summer is officially here, and we're celebrating!  We're so excited for this very special season and have big plans for TONS of FUN!

It's time to get this party started...ready, set, GO!!

Have a happy Monday!!