Rather than pick a favorite image(s) from this past year I decided to post one that sums up what my year behind the camera has been like and what my inner eye saw. I spent a lot of mornings and evenings at local natural areas as a positive way to start my day. I also made sure to spend ample time on the eastern plains and those wide open space, embracing the experience and quiet of nature. For me this image encapsulates what my year in photography was like: clouds, sunrises, sunsets, nature, silence, solitude, bird songs mixed with the wind. It also reminds me how small a part I am in this universe but yet an integral part of it. Awesomeness!

The past year also included upheaval in our world. The pandemic continues to disrupt our lives. Climate change evidence abounds. Yet, I am not giving up hope for this world. I feel there is something each of us can do to bring about positive change in the world. Seems I pray with this creator of the universe more often, and that’s a good thing.

At home, I’ve made changes to my condo with new carpet and vinyl flooring and a splash of new paint. Well two coats. My parents moved into assisted living in May. Soon after mom went into hospice and died on August 19th. It’s been a tough year for my 92 year old father. He lost a spouse of 72 years, tested positive for Covid-19 a week later, then his whole facility went into lockdown for the next couple of weeks. Not to break a family tradition my sisters, brother-in-law and myself spent the week prior to Thanksgiving with dad. It was good for him and for us! My youngest granddaughter married in September so we officially welcomed Brandon to the family!

Not sure this is a New Years resolution but in this coming year I wish to cherish life, all of nature and respect it, love at greater depths my neighbor and all of creation, myself, God and hope in the healing of this broken world. For me that’s really not asking much, is doable and begins with me. I’m hoping, wishing, praying your coming year is full of good health, dark chocolate, laughter, joy, milk chocolate (if dark is not available), wonderful family time, the making of new experiences and whatever you can add to this list. Happy New Year!