American Goldfench

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It’s not a rare sighting, but beautiful. I took this picture at the John A Wannemacher nature reserve. The bird sighting was cool, but I also ran into a good friend. I intended to reach out to my friend for some time, but this was a surprise encounter. 

Life is like that .. and relationships matter.  

 

American goldfinch

American goldfinch

Ageless ...

Horseshoes (Take at a friends home near Casstown, OH)

Horseshoes (Take at a friends home near Casstown, OH)

Horseshoes is an old game! I prefer to think of it as ageless. (The History of Horseshoes)

I have one of those big birthdays later this year, and it is easy take it too serious. Getting ‘old’ is natural, and the options are not great.

How do you make the most out of your life? I suggest staying active, engaging with every day, and taking care of your health. Enjoy time with those you love and care about! Surrounded yourself with positive influences, and find your passion. You may not live to be 100, but you can enjoy every day! 

 

Slow down ...

... you may miss the view!  

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Last weekend we drove to Tennessee for the funeral of a dear friend. A week earlier his daughter called me to ask if I would speak at his funeral service. I was not aware, but sometime in the past he had made this request. It was difficult, but an honor.

Stewart was a big influence on me in my early 20’s. I am grateful to have known him, and for his influence, kindness, and example. I am also relieved that he is not suffering or in pain. We love his family, and it was good to be with them. 

Since my mom passed away years ago, funerals have been very difficult for me. My Father passed earlier this year, and I am still dealing with emotions from his death. 

On the drive home, I was thinking about the previous day, the funeral, my parents, work .. just lot of ‘stuff’. Teresa noticed this sign (above). I had my camera with me, hoping to capture some of the beauty, but my mind was absorbed elsewhere. I turned the car around and found this gorgeous view. I needed this.

Island View Overlook (Livingston Hwy, near Byrdtown, TN)

Island View Overlook (Livingston Hwy, near Byrdtown, TN)

Yes, it was overcast, which matched my mood. The view, beautiful. The peaceful setting .. fitting. 

The early bird ...

Alone  

Alone  

I get up very early in the mornings. Most days I’m up at 3:30A, and in the gym by 4:00A. Maybe I’m crazy but I find this to be a special time of day. My head is clear, and I can be more mindful. I don’t believe everyone should try this time in the mornings, but suggest finding what works. 

I have been trying to take a picture of this eagle that shows up near the spot where I took this picture. Sometimes being early is not enough. Have a good day. 

The long and winding road ...

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I’m getting ready to drive to Tennessee for the funeral service of a dear friend. Life is not always what we expect. It takes twist and turns, like a winding road.  He influenced my life more than he knew.

It’s only been a few months since I lost my own father. Now, more than ever I feel my own mortality .. life is fragile and short. The sun will rise tomorrow, so enjoy today, live life to the fullest, love and enjoy every day.