Who knew Florida has waterfalls?

I don't know why . . . just caught my eye.

This is the resident heron I've posted so many photos of before. How do I know it's the same heron? Because I see the red plastic wrapped around his leg. Everytime I see that . . . I see red. Pack your trash, people! On a brighter note, tonight he caught an appetizer while I was eyeing him.

Mardi Gras gear is ready to go.

Looking for ideas.

This kind man brought me food and drink every time I asked for it! He's my hero.

It tasted better than it looked.

It's set.

Not in Kansas, but the ruby red slippers were out tonight on Alabama's Gulf Coast.

New dish drain: 0, Tile floor: 2. First it was the coffee pot now my favorite mug. Change is hard.

It's a fun to have a boss who is also a friend. Thanks, Michael.

Under a blanket of fog at Lake Guntersville State Park, I saw an eagle and a blue heron sharing a fishing spot.

I am grateful for my sister and my lumberjack brother-in-law this week.

Some things never change. It was great fun listening to and talking about music with Teresa today.

April and Melanie went back in time and rocked the 1940s look. I was just happy to be along for the trip. You can't beat good times with good friends, no matter what decade you are in.

I went on a little scavenger hunt at Fort Morgan today, previewing as they tune up for an exciting new adventure for visitors.

Today, I was in High Cotton and in good company.

In my backyard.

Like I need more pictures of a heron?! I just can't help it. He's such an interesting subject.

The work of Maya Blume-Cantrell.

Sweet home Alabama.

Classic lunch spot in Greenwood, Mississippi. And I'm supposed to have room for pie??

Today we explored Southhaven, Olive Branch, Tunica and Clarksdale and met some fellow Blues lovers along the way.

The Chapel at Bonne Terre is just one of the picturesque spots on this property, a Mississippi Delta gem, in Nesbit, Mississippi.

The new Woodside is a great little eatery right on the Back Country Trail. It's also a deceptively hoppin' lunch spot!

It may be a jungle out there, but the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach is a fantastic place to escape. There is so much art to be enjoyed.

I've never bought collards in a bag before. But I know the best traditions can survive a bit of improvisation.

The last ho, ho, hos of the season.

I think every day about our neighbors who are, and will continue for a long time to come, suffering, struggling, coping and rebounding from Hurricane Michael. I haven't done nearly enough to support recovery efforts but I am so excited to have this one, tiny thing I can continue to do -- buy beer! #panhandlestrong

It's a bad photo, but I couldn't resist sharing this heron’s morning catch. In my defense, I shot the bad photo one-handed, using a long lens, through a window while on the phone.
 

My Big Beach Brewing socks.

Today was a "just get a shot" day.

A lovely sign of good cheer and holiday spirit.

'Tis the season.

Beautiful sky at sunset this evening.

I caught a quick glimpse of a pair of hooded mergansers today for the first time in a long while. They usually show up on cold, dreary days so I was happy a little bit of sunshine popped out just in time.

It's still a good year. I'm still a fan. Go Saints.

Roll tide and roll Segway! Fun morning on the Back Country Trail.

Do these pants make my butt look lazy?

This girl was very thankful her dad was home for Thanksgiving and these are just two of the smiling faces I was blessed to be surrounded by. The preciousness of the time together was foremost in my heart as earlier in the day, I learned an extended family member got the news at 6 am no mother, nobody, can imagine getting. I am so very sorry for that mother's loss. And I am so very thankful for time with my family.

I've never been an athlete but I see so much good at the events I attend. Today I saw athletes from different backgrounds representing the same team. I saw teams from across the country coming together to compete, but those competitors supporting each other along the way. I saw coaches teaching, parents encouraging and friends celebrating. All great reasons to smile.

I am a music lover. Tonight was a true gift, hearing the songs, feeling the passion and being inspired by young songwriters at LuLu's in Gulf Shores. Thanks, Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival. (Pictured: Brigham Cason)

I had a very yummy pork dinner but I have no photo of that. So, nuts.

It was a fun morning with the lemurs at the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. I got some crazy looks.

Aren't they cute?

I didn't get to go in tonight, but I just love the look of Big Beach Brewing Co at night. I'll be back soon.

Along the trail on a dreary afternoon, some colorful accents stood out amid the miles of weathered boardwalk railings.

This book cover illustration has been pulling me in . . .

Thank you, Melanie and April. And oysters. For a fabulous evening. Lovely ending to a fabulous day. And, did I say fabulous? Yes, that.

I'm loving the art around here.

I usually think of spring as the season of hope. Today, the many fall Monarchs I saw brought hopeful thoughts, after having seen the destruction of property and disruption of lives left on the Florida coast by Hurricane Michael.

Day is done. Feet up.

I found my sign today.

Mondays are a lot more fun when I'm surrounded by colorful friends.

One of my favorite mugs, ready for morning duty.
 

The beautiful work of the talented Maya Blume-Cantrell.

I love how a macro lens lets this tiny yellow flower fill the frame and shine. #NoCropping

I couldn't leave Maine without having one of these!

Day 204

It was a beautiful, calm scene before the sunrise in Acadia National Park. 

Day 189

I don't know what lead me to pull this out today. Though I have to admit it's not been used much, I've had this rosary for years and have always loved it. Tonight, I'll use it as a reminder to say a prayer for comfort, healing and peace for those who need it and for a bit more respect, mercy and civility among us all.

Nothing to see here. #LazyPhotographer

Day 184

Gotta have it.

Day 178

Beautiful evening and a fun day.

178

My friend Bebe didn't sing for me yesterday but she gifted me this with this Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf album. And she did tell me a few stories that would make great songs . . . we'll have to work on that someday.

Day 177

Have you ever wondered what happens when a memory card in your camera fails? While it can result in some interesting images, its never the result you want. Trust me on this.

Day 176

Thinking of my new friends on the coast of the Carolinas and wishing them the best. Stay safe.

Day 175

I'm always intrigued by things that start off mindlessly and somehow end up holding a deeper meaning. Maybe I'm reaching, but this random abstract struck me as a fitting remembrance on this day.

Day 174

I saw the most amazing dance by some butterflies at Weeks Bay Reserve's pitcher plant bog today. I was able to get some shots of their fascinating movements but I love the shadows in this one. One butterfly, two shadows. Optical illusion?

Day 173

It never stops . . .

Day 172

There was a whole lotta stomping -- and tasting, and touring and all kinds of fun -- going on at Duplin Winery's Grape Stomp Festival.

Day 171

Tasting wine and talking tourism makes for a very sweet day.

Day 170

We had a delicious breakfast and a little entertainment from Mizz Evelyn and Elvis at Yana's Restaurant in Swansboro, N.C.

Captain Mike was an outstanding ambassador and what a beautiful afternoon it was aboard Swansboro By Sail. 

Day 168

Gray is a moonshiner and he's proud of it! I enjoyed a tour and tasting at Walton's Distillery in Jacksonville, North Carolina. "Cheers" to family traditions!

Day 164

Isn't it Pretty?
 

Oldies but goodies.

Day 156

I made a new friend and learned a new term tonight. James is a Cork Dork. I enjoyed dinner, some good wine and enjoyed the time together even more.

Day 153

There were lots of these beauties along the Back Country Trial today. This one, like me, needed a rest. #ItWasHotOutside

Day 151

At Miss Rita's memorial service this evening it was clear to see that she's left a whole lot more than a little sparkle. Yes, I see that sparkle in my friend Michelle's eyes. But I also see  a beautiful legacy of teaching your children well and making the world a brighter place. Her light will shine on and on.

Day 147

Thank you, John Legend, for that #headbandoftheday earworm. It's been in my head all day. Luckily for everyone involved, my headband selfie photo series will be short, as this is the only one I own. I hope the earworm is equally as short-lived.

Day 15

Have you ever looked around at all the things that surround you everyday and realize how long it's been since you actually noticed them? Tonight I found a bowl full of inspiration sitting right in front of me. Maybe tomorrow I'll try to actually read some of it.

Day 140

A quick iphone view from my evening walk.

Day 132

Her shirt says "fabulous" because she is. Look at that smile!

Day 130

If these walls could talk! Muscle Shoals Sound Studio was the home of the famous Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section (the Swampers) and has been called "Rock n Roll Heaven." The number of world-renowned artists and chart-topping hits influenced by the Swampers in this building is astounding. Come take a tour for yourself. You'll be amazed.  

Day 28

After a long drive this evening, it was refreshing to get such an enthusiastic greeting. Jerry gave me a very warm welcome, shook my hand (over and over again) and kept an eye on me for quite a while.

Day 125

It's just one green leaf among lots of green leaves but sometimes a little light in the right spot makes something ordinary stand out.

Day 123

I was lucky enough to catch a few tunes from this guy today. Check out the music of Brigham Cason any time you get a chance. He's a very impressive young man with crazy talent and versatility.

Day 120

I'd rather have the reds than the blues.

Day 113

Today's brush with greatness: listening to world-famous local legend, entertainer and songwriter Brent Burns, perform and charm the crowd. 

Day 112

Raindrops on roses . . .

Day 111

I see this on my mirror every morning. I'm grateful for Monday's miracles, tiny as they were. 

Day 109

It was a fun afternoon on the water with this guy. Captain Rick did a great job of keeping us away from the storms.

Day 107

It was a beautiful golden sunset in my neighborhood tonight.

Day 106

 . . . also known as Michael and Jessica. Enjoying the 4th of July on the bay.

Day 105

There were many, many cute kids out tonight enjoying all the holiday fun at The Wharf. This colorful cat was my favorite.

Day 104

April gave me this journal years ago and it surfaced again a couple days ago. Then yesterday, she shared a message of gratitude with me. Today it's my turn. I am constantly inspired by April for so many reasons. And I am grateful for her friendship, all the good she sends out to the people around her, to her community and into the universe.

Day 103

Drama over the water.

Day 102

Drink local! There's a lot to choose from among Alabama's breweries' beers. Tastes great and feels good to support local businesses. And yes, I did just happen to have these in my fridge.

Day 101

The sea oats have really popped out in the last week or so. In bloom, they are such a beautiful addition to the beach landscape and I love watching them (and photographing them) go from green to gold through the summer and into fall.

Day 100

While I was focusing on the flower, this guy flew in for a closer look.

Day 99

Today I learned about the stories and legacy of Cudjoe Lewis, the last known survivor of the slave ship Clotilde, the last one known to have arrived in the United States, which landed in Mobile. His is one of the fascinating stories and an amazing legacy being shared every day along the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail.

Seems pretty reasonable to me. #NoPoopZone #Don'tFeedTheBirds

Day 96

I usually assume when I see owls in my yard that they are one, or sometimes both, of a pair who live somewhere nearby. Today though, I think this guy, who stared back at me for quite a while, is a juvenile, based on that fuzzy head. Maybe the family is growing.

Day 95

It was a very nice evening at the Anchor Bar & Grill. Beautiful view, nice breeze, live music, pork belly tots, beer and good company. Hard to beat that.

Again, just playing. I need to get out more.

Day 92

Small batch Hickory Maple Nut Brown at Big Beach Brewing. Drinking local with no filter.

Day 90

Lisa and Hans were wonderful hosts tonight at Lisa's new restaurant, Lucy's, in Auburn. True hospitality and excellent food! If you're in town, be sure to check it out.

Day 88

The new trails in Gulf State Park offer some nice views of the native wildlife.

Day 86

Here's one example of the fashion-forward public art in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Day 85

While struggling to understand many of the works in the Dali Museum, I had a deep appreciation for this young art lover. She was so intent, listening to the audio tour and taking in each of the paintings.

Day 83

It was a beautiful morning and a pleasant walk back to the ferry dock when we left Cumberland Island. The weekend was a first-time hiking and camping adventure for me and I loved it. Most parts of it, anyway. It was a great adventure!

Day 82

Here's another of the surprising sights on Cumberland Island. After walking miles on trails through untouched habitats, we turned onto a roadway and saw Plum Orchard in the distance. We enjoyed a picnic lunch alongside the wild horses then toured the mansion. 

Day 81

Our first stop after arriving on Cumberland Island was the site of Dungeness. The mansion is in ruins but its remains and beautiful setting are amazing sights. And the National Parks Service guides there were so very friendly and a terrific resource.

Day 79

I'm going on a walkabout and will be off the grid for a bit. See you on the flip side.

This little angel looks very intent.

Day 68

These are my funky, comfy, lazy-Sunday, movie-watching-on-the-couch britches. I thought they offered a colorful solution to my need for a picture of the day.

Day 66

I photographed some outstanding athletes today. They were outstanding in their abilities, in their sportsmanship and many, in their attire. I'm thinking these socks were his secret weapon.

Day 65

These guys. Great leaders for our Alabama tourism industry. Earlier this week the release of 2017 economic impact numbers brought positive news and today we cut the ribbon on the new Interpretive Center, an amazing addition to the Gulf State Park. And Herb and Lee are already looking forward to the next big opening, which has taken seven governors to get done, the new lodge and conference center.

Day 64

Pretty light this evening at The Wharf in Orange Beach.

Day 62

Don't let the still of the night fool you. All the activity was going on inside. Trivia night for Geeks Who Drink makes Monday a rousing night at the brewery. Team Small Brain, Big Beach ended in the money again tonight. Plus, I won socks! Score!

Day 58

My ride rolled over 100,000 miles this evening. It's just getting broken in, right? I sure hope so. And I hope the two of us share many more miles together.

Day 57

It was such a pleasure to meet Iris tonight. She's two years old and she's a firecracker, for sure. Rumor has it she's a Louisiana girl, but she currently resides in Birmingham, Alabama. I'm so happy she chose to bring her mom and grandparents to Orange Beach for vacation.

Day 55

A splash of color on a gray afternoon.

This old friend is always a good model when I need one.

Day 52

If you google "swirly shell" the photos of shells that look the most like this one identify them as moon shells. That was my scientific research for the day.

Day 48

Thank you, Anchor Bar, for a fabulous salad with an amazing view.

Day 39

Sunset view from the airport.

Day 36

I got such a relaxing welcome to Pawleys Island that I almost forgot to post a picture for the day. This hasty post does not do the location justice, but it does show off my lovely welcome gift. 

Day 34

She doesn't get a warm and fuzzy feeling from these guys but this one was obviously a #greatnanajan groupie, hanging out outside her workplace today. After a closer look at the picture, I had to google "do lizards molt" and found out they do, usually in patches. 

Day 33

We're looking forward to a new addition to the family. She will be will be so loved and so well cared for and is already well-outfitted with the best of clothes and gear. Her sweet mama is encouraging her arrival this week. Can't wait!

I started this 365 project for a couple reasons. One was to remind myself to slow down and pay attention to the world around me (#whatcolettesees). The other was to encourage myself to take more photographs, to get out there with my camera not just when I'm working, but for fun. Today I succeeded in the former but not the latter. I didn't take my camera with me on the trail today. When I saw this tiny face peering from the house on the tree, I regretted it. iPhone to the rescue. 

Day 28 I took my camera for a walk in Gulf State Park this afternoon. Three Bald Eagles in a nest is a majestic sight and always feels like a privilege. I also saw this cutie, a Northern Flicker, also known as a Yellowhammer, the state bird of Alabama.

Day 27

I find them much more attractive when parked quietly.

Day 25

I went to Stone Mountain for the first time today but this was my favorite sight of the day. Old friends . . . forever friends. Great memories of good times and plans for more.

Day 24

This is Kathy, my college roommate. She hasn't changed a bit. Still the organized one. This time she's outdone herself, organizing a reunion of old (young at heart) friends from four states after "a few" years and many miles of separation. What a wonderful gift.

Day 23

I am very excited for my friend Chandra and for all the great things she'll do in her her new gig. Happy to be able to celebrate her new adventure tonight.

Day 21

Just one.

What a great day in West Volusia County, Florida! We started by cooking our own breakfast at our own table, a popular DeLeon State Park tradition. Then we saw manatees, hiked trails, met such welcoming people, ate more fabulous food . . . it was a great day!

Day 19

It was an enlightening day. Good friends, meaningful messages, sense of peace.

Day 18

It's hard to beat a refreshing shower after a leisurely morning stroll on the beach.

Day 17

This Great Egret in breeding plumage preens while babies are calling for some attention. I saw them at an amazing Florida rookery today.

Day 15

It was a fabulous day for photographing birds! Snowy and Reddish Egrets were highlights . . . but there were many, many more.

Day 12

My favorite shot from this morning's sunrise shoot was actually a moon shot.

Day 11

I've been thinking about my sisters today. I am so very thankful for them. This morning I repotted some plants and called Hilda for advice. This afternoon I baked a cake and used Deena's recipe. I didn't do either as well as they could have. I am still sad and sometimes angry that Deena is not still with us, but Hilda and I carry on and I appreciate her every day. They will both always be part of me and a huge blessing. Happy Birthday Deena!

Day 9

Horned owl took over an osprey nest this year. New baby was checking out the surroundings this afternoon.

Day 8

Spring break at Orange Beach Waterfront Park.

Day 7

Some days, the planned shots don't materialize. I'm feeling very lucky to have some beautiful visuals hanging around my house to fall back on. I admire the fused glass work of Paula Marksbury so much! Here's a dreamy slice.

Day 5

Big Beach Brewing has been such a great addition to our community. It's a delightful spot to gather for great beers, comfortable setting and outstanding service. Tonight's Monday Night Trivia event was no exception.

Day 3: Generosity

I've been a supporter of Habitat for Humanity for years. I am thankful for the friends who were active volunteers before me and inspired me to get involved. Today I had the privilege of delivering a very generous donation, from a friend who wishes to remain anonymous, for an upcoming home. I am amazed by and proud to be involved with "Habitat people." From the hard working families who earn the home through perseverance and sweat equity, to the dedicated staff and volunteers, to the friends who choose to invest in the future of our community by offering a hand up when they can. Thank you all.

Day 2: Momentary Escape

Ten minutes at the beach are better than none. It was a beautiful day out there.

Brigham CasonAlbum release performance at The Steeple in Mobile, Alabama.

The talent this young man has is amazing. Equally, the focus he has sustained through the two years leading up to his 16^th birthday is impressive. This week it was so sweet to see him perform the original songs from his cd, recorded in the famed studios of Alabama’s Shoals region. Congratulations, Brigham Cason!

FocusBrigham Cason

Brigham CasonAlbum release performance at The Steeple, Mobile, Alabama.

I always try to look beyond the obvious shot, to look behind me, to check for changing light. Sometimes what I find is refreshing or beautiful or funny or just plain cute. Many times it has nothing to do with the reason I’m there. Or, let me rephrase that. It has nothing to do with the assignment . . . maybe it is the reason I’m there.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The day before the recent NAIA Track & Field Championship began, these Webber student athletes took time away from practice to give some local youngsters pointers on technique. In the process, they brought out a whole bunch of smiles and taught a few lessons in character, as well. Well done, Webber!

Until recently there was a poster on the wall above my computer here declaring “the blues is a feeling.” I just returned from the land of the Delta Blues and I can say with certainty that, yes, it’s a feeling, but it’s much more than that. 

The Hopson Plantation is the site of the Shack-Up Inn in Clarksdale, Mississippi.

The Shacks all have porches and bear names like "Pinetop" and "Crossroads".

It is a way of life that has been passed down through generations in music and lyrics and stories. The stories range from those of hard labor, hard times and hard drinking to those of the comforts of a Sunday service, a home-cooked meal or a big-legged woman, but together they make up a tapestry of Delta music and Delta lifestyle. Through these stories of how the people of the Delta have survived, it’s clear how its Blues has survived. It’s as integral today as ever, maybe more. It’s everywhere. Museums, art galleries, clubs, lodging – all based on the Blues. In a way it seems odd that the music itself has become the story. But the music does such a powerful job of telling its stories – sharing its feeling – that surely the culture and heritage, the way of life of the Delta will continue to survive through it. 

Bubba Sullivan owns Bubba's Blues Corner  in Helena, Arkansas and has a story about every piece of memorabilia on the wall.

Based on my visit, I’m sure the stories of these places and people will be preserved for many more generations to come. 


As for that poster that used to be on my wall? I replaced it with one of the  photographs it took recently. One thing the 365 Project (a picture a day for a year) I took on last year forced me to do was to get out and explore more; and to pay attention more; and to experience more. I hope to follow up on that this year with photos and stories of my experiences; of the things I see. With a little luck, maybe they can evoke just a fraction of the feeling those Blues songs do. Maybe I’ll even work my way up to writing some Blues songs of my own . . . .

Po Monkey's in Merigold, Mississippi is legendary.

Wllie Seaberry owns Po Monkey's.

It's still all about the music. Eric Hughes was performing at Ground Zero Blues Club in Clarksdale, Mississippi the night we were there.

I happened upon this little barn during my first 365-day project and haven't been back to it until today. There's just something about it .  .  .

There were a harrowing few minutes just beyond my driveway this morning. Yes, I was prepared to help if needed, but my first impulse was to grab my camera. I think we both breathed a sigh of relief when this guy reached the "finish line."

I was up with the early birds this morning. Here's my "Super Moon" from 5:14 a.m. I was hoping to get it with some reflections on the water for some perspective as it set, but with clouds all around that wasn't in the cards. It was definitely worth getting out of bed early and, as always, a challenge to try and do it justice.

My brother is on a baking spree! This is his coffee cake. I also got to test his blueberry crisp. I can happily report that both of these were delicious! I can't comment on the cheesecake. He wouldn't share.

With the help of my friend Phillip I planted two trees a little over two years ago. They were symbols of hope then. It's nice to see new growth now.

Nice view at dinner tonight in Orange Beach.

Still no bright ideas today.

None for me today.

The girls got some intense training on how to squirt water with their hands during their swim this afternoon.

Look who I found hanging out in my cereal. Anybody remember this guy?

There were so many cardinals in my yard this evening I thought we must be electing another pope! I couldn't get a clear shot through my dirty windows at dusk and was too lazy to go outside and shoot it correctly. I'll try to do better tomorrow.

Emalie, Hannah, John and Eli spent the day playing together in the water and on the piers. We were at the bay where there great grandparents bought lots next to each other decades ago. Since then their grandparents (my generation) and their parents spent many a day the same way. It's good to see that some family traditions are finding their way to new generations.

See Don. See Don look. Look Don, look.

This afternoon in Gulf State Park Park I witnessed an amazing "collection" of osprey in nests and nearby trees. I saw three perched in one tree. I saw three in a nest. I saw another flying around with a fish. He landed in a distant tree, aparently not wanting to share his dinner. While this shot doesn't relay any of that action, the light on this particular bird made it my favorite shot of the day.

This historic cabin on the grounds of the Preston home is beautifully illuminated at night.

• Elvis Presley - "Suspicious Minds," "Kentucky Rain," "In the Ghetto," "Don't Cry Daddy," and "I've Got A Thing About You Baby"
• J.J. Cale - "Cajun Moon" and "Cocaine"
• Dusty Springfield- "Son of a Preacher Man"
• The Box Tops - "The Letter", "Cry Like a Baby"
• Dobie Gray - "Drift Away"
• The Highwaymen - "Highwayman" and "Desperados Waiting For A Train"
• Willie Nelson - "Always On My Mind"
• B.J. Thomas - "Hooked On A Feeling" "Hey, Won't You Play Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song"
• Neil Diamond - "Sweet Caroline"

Today I was lucky enough to spend time with Reggie and his beautiful wife Jenny. I also got to see him graciously interact with up and coming star Jackson Nance. It was so much fun to see the appreciation, admiration and respect young Jackson has for this legend. I'm a fan of them both.

I spent the day in Bayou La Batre, Alabama.

I took a little detour on my way home today.

I love those days . . .

This Little Green Heron seemed to be trying to judge the wind speed before he took off.

Phyllis and I cruised the car show on Main Street at The Wharf for our monthly outing. Our focus was on capturing close up images but for some reason I keep coming back to this one as of of my favorites of the day.

Looks like a peaceful walk.

Here's April enjoying her coffee and her beachfront view -- and my company, of course. I'm so glad I got to celebrate this birthday with her. I love seeing that smile. Happy Birthday April!

What could be more fun, really?

So many things to be grateful for today. April gave me this wonderful little book to jot down daily gifts; a way to focus on the positive each day. Today, spending time with her is on top of my list. It was a beautiful day! Thanks, April.

A little slice of heaven on the Lagoon in Gulf Shores!

These festivities day after day could make one begin to feel like a celebrity! I'm feeling so very grateful for all the friends and family I've had the chance to celebrate with this year. Thanks to all y'all!

Birthday festivities continue. What fun!

Thank you, Cheryl Vickers, for the shoulder and the faith you shared with me today. You are a blessing. And thank God for answered prayers.

It was a very peaceful evening on Wolf Bay.

Today starts a new year for me. My 50th. I'm so grateful for the family and friends who have gotten me this far and the amazing blessings I've been given. Every year at this time I find myself saying, "There is so much more to see and do out there!" I've decided to try this photo-a-day thing again because photography truly helps me engage with and appreciate more the people and the environment around me. I don't want to let this year pass me by!

I started the day at the beach this morning and while the picture I've chosen feels like a bit of a cliche, it's a scene that just never gets old for me and always makes me hopeful. I think that's an appropriate way to start.