Happy 2015!

Even with only an occasional lemon, I’ve still managed to make lemonade – finding joy, as I always do.  Like anyone, I’ve had my share of challenges in 2014.  I surrender this year to the ages, more thankful than ever.  I’m happy to have many in my life that care about me, friends near and far that appreciate my input.  Over the past 12 months I’ve met many new people on various social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) and elsewhere, and have become inspired by their personal stories of life, love and the pursuit of happiness, thrilled to call them friends too, and feel a special connection to most. We are kindred spirits, this I am certain.

Resolutions get a bad rap, but if I were to make one it would be to be more mindful.  We live in a day and age of intense communication, and it’s easy to overlook the real issues or become too reactionary, but I want to be a better listener, especially to those plagued by doubts and fears.

Now more than ever, we must find a way to connect.  We are more alike than different.  Let’s think about that before judging what we most likely don’t understand.

I’ve been living in a black and white world, and only recently have I realized just how many shades of gray there really are.  That’s scary, but in a good way.  I’m excited by 2015 because I see possibilities.  What do you see?

Here’s to the future!  For those who lack joy – it’s out there waiting for you.  For those who are living joy – there is more to come.  And, for those who feel they have an overabundance of joy (there is no such thing as too much joy) – share.  Never be stingy with what should be free flowing.  Too many people need it, and so desperately.  Give until it hurts, and then give some more.  Stay positive and strong, my friends.  Happy New Year!

That’s it for me!  I am signing off.  I’ll see you next year, sweet friends – eager to share more of my adventures with you, hoping you appreciate my journey just as much as I appreciate yours.  Each and every one of you have inspired and motivated me in your own special way.  I feel extremely blessed and thankful.  You’ve helped make my 2014 memorable.  As always, my wish for all is peace, love and joy – today and every day.

Photographs – reminders of my journey with each telling their own unique story.  Not every photo can be the best, but serve as confirmation to a life lived – happily, joyfully.  I have so many photos from 2014, and they do tell a remarkable story.  These four are my favorite because the joy, love and laughter I can remember like it was yesterday. – paerki
 
"A truly good photograph tells a story. It should connect to the reader. That's all there is to it really. Things like composition, focus, color, lighting and subject matter are all in a sense just fashionable. But the photos that tell stories are timeless." – Leslie Dean Brown