Day 5 Gratitude Project - Feeling Blessed {Columbus Ohio Photographer}

Some days I have to think about & look for my blessings - other days I feel blessed all through the day. Today was one of those days. I had a wonderful time at my art show, made a lot of new connections and chatted with old friends. The November day was sunny & warm enough that I went for a walk with Mags & a friend, & then we went for ice cream (Buckeye - of course! ). As we drove back home, I realized how much I love where I live - lots of trees & green space & lovely rustic woodsy architecture. And to end the evening, we went to a place at Polaris that gives incredible massages. I slept like a baby when I got home!

Day 4 Gratitude Project - Creative Spirit {Central Ohio Photographer}

Today I am thankful for creation, creativity & the creative spirit in all of us. I have an art show today & tomorrow. It still seems a bit surreal that now I’m sitting behind the booth as a vendor - & I feel very blessed to have had this creative spirit. Each time I lift my camera, I ask that what I produce will be like a prayer to God and a giving thanks. The other day there was a heavy frost - & even though it spelled the end for my zinnias, I thought what a beautiful way to go – coated with a sugary frost. The awesomeness of creation amazes me - & I feel like such a small speck – thankful to just be a part of it all. (Kind of rambling, but I’m tired! Lol!)

Day Three Gratitude Project - Good Friends {Columbus Ohio Photographer}

In life, I have found that if you have a friend for each part of your life that is important to you, then you are so very blessed. I do feel so blessed to have amazing friends - both online and in my personal life. Friends add depth and breadth to life and living. My friends are there for laughs, support, adventures, thrift store foraging and hugs when needed. On this day, I visited Amish country in Ohio with a friend & her foster child. I feel like I am Auntie Joy to him & that is a blessing, too! it is so great to see things through a child's eye & on their level - literally!

I find that part of what I enjoy about this gratitude project, is taking the time - really taking the time - to sit and write about what I'm thankful for on a given day. The writing, & then sharing just really let it all sink in and absorb into my soul!

Indian Summer { Central Ohio Photographer }

Day 2

It is one of those beautiful sunny Indian Summer days here in Central Ohio. There are still some colorful leaves clinging to the trees. The birds and squirrels are busy at the feeders and gathering goodies in anticipation of the coming winter. My wind chimes are gently singing in the light breeze. It is a day that just fills the soul with happiness. I am thankful for these days and being in the moment, thankful for the seasons & unique beauty of each one, & glad I can take a moment to appreciate it all & bask in the beauty. It is such a fleeting season, & that makes me take note & delight in each moment!

Gratitude1: Bobina Jean (Bobbie) RIP sweet kitty

Each year for the past several years, I have been a moderator in the Flickr Group 30 Days of Gratitude. As we enter the month of Thanksgiving, it is the perfect time to take a small moment each day & reflect on what we are thankful for each day. After 30 days, you cultivate an attitude of gratitude - perfect time for Thanksgiving & entering into the holiday season. What have you given thanks for today? Giving thanks makes us happier and more optimistic. Come join us in the Gratitude Project. Give thanks!


As I start the month of Thanksgiving, I have had a loss I am mourning, but today I am looking for the sweet spots & giving thanks.......

My teeny tiger cat Bobina Jean (Bobbie) showed up in the woods outside my new home 17.5 years ago. She was a feral kitten whose mother had apparently died or just left her. You couldn't get near her & it took many weeks & patience to be able to get near enough to touch her. Eventually Bobbie took up residence & stayed near our property, although she remained outdoors & pretty wild. In the evenings I opened the garage door so she could sleep safe & sound.

When I went through a divorce & moved out of the house, I went back everyday for a week to try to find her. I did & she came with me & became an indoor kitty - a change she relished! When I got my dog, Maggie (who most here know!) Bobbie immediately took to her - as you can see here.

Sunday night, Bobbie started having seizures. We rushed to the emergency vet, but it was her time to leave this world. I am heartbroken and miss her so much. She was my little squeaky wheel with her strange little meow! But I am thankful I had her in my life for 17 and a half years. We saw so much life together & shared such love. Today I am thankful for Bobbi (Bobina) - thankful for our time, our experiences & adventures, & all the affection & love we shared. Bobbie did not cooperate with the camera & I have few photos of her - this was always one of my faves - & I am so thankful for this photo!