Hello friends,
Yesterday was the Winter Solstice here in the northern hemisphere. The shortest day of the year. I love the Winter Solstice because on that day I know that it has gotten as dark as it’s going to get. Each day after will be a little longer. Even a minute more sunlight each day makes me happy. Well, “makes me happy” might be overstating it a bit. “Helps me through” is probably more accurate.
I’m crazy-busy at work but still trying to get out with my camera as much as possible. Some days, if the weather is particularly fine, I will use my lunch hour to go to a nearby park for some nature therapy.
2024 is drawing to a close, and when I looked at my “24 for 2024” list recently, I was impressed that I actually accomplished the majority of my goals (as in, more than half – lol). I didn’t find the perfect thrifted red hoodie, but I bought myself a red “Boston” tourist hoodie during one of my visits to Sam. I read way more than the 24 novels I hoped to read (especially if you count audio books). I didn’t get new eyeglasses, didn’t take a photography class, and I won’t be spending Christmas in Boston – but I did take at least one trip that requires a passport, photographed birds along the shores of Lake Erie (proof above!), and celebrated Sam’s and my mom’s birthdays with them in their respective homes. I’m going to call it a win.
There will definitely be a “25 for 2025” list, and a one word theme for the year as well. 2024’s word was “Strong” and it ended up being appropriate for all that was required of me this year. I will share my list and theme with you in my next post.
Take care, my friends. I know this next two weeks can be a bit much for many of us.
Love,
Michelle xoxo
Hi Michelle
I’ve been enjoying your posts all year, and indeed for many years now. The photography is stunning and your words so beautiful and apt.
I officially ‘retired’ in June having reached 60, but I’m happy to say I’m as busy as ever, mostly with some voluntary work connected to my previous job. I’m also still playing lots of music in local orchestras.
My wife Suzanne and I have a lovely Jack Russell type dog, Rex who keeps us active if we needed any encouragement- which we really don’t! Suzanne has a horse and rides (show jumping and some dressage) and sea swims all year ( a bracing experience in Irish weather).
I’d love to meet up again some time. If ever you’re in Ireland let me know! It was so nice to meet your niece Danielle some years ago when she was studying here. We still connect very occasionally through Facebook, which I’m forever grateful to for linking me back with a number of people with whom I’d lost contact over the years.
Anyway, please keep posting your lovely blogs and let’s stay in touch.
With kind regards and every best wishes for Christmas and 2025.
Fergal x
Fergal, my Irish brother! I was so happy to see this update from you. And I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your encouraging words, too. I often have a real case of self-doubt when it comes to my writing and my photographs. Please know that you and Suzanne have an open invitation to stay with us in New Zealand! If I ever get there! 🙂
Your photography is beautiful. And I love your theme idea for an upcoming year. I await your word choice, and reserve the right to adopt it, myself 😊
Awww,Terry – I really appreciate your comments on this blog. Your encouragement means a lot to me.