Into The Woods…photo by Julie Wise
What does joy mean to you?
Is it a feeling? How do you know when you’re experiencing it?
For me, joy is often a quiet inner knowing; a feeling that bubbles up from deep within and expands until it bursts out all around me. The whole world seems brighter and lighter in that moment and I feel like I’m being carried on the wind.
Sometimes I experience joy in certain places, or with specific people. Other times, it comes upon me unexpectedly. I find it’s elusive, hard to define, yet unmistakable when it arrives.
What brings you joy?
Flying across the water, wind in the sails … that’s joy!
One my my many joys is driving my Mini. I smile every time I see it. It makes me feel happy inside. Plus it’s so much fun to drive (especially on roundabouts)!
Another joy is having matching black and white accessories 😉
Mirror covers and car by Mini Canada; capris and clutch by escherly design. Such joy!
Mini me!
I discovered this beauty a few days ago. At first I thought it was a morning glory flower because I noticed it first thing in the morning.
Last evening, however, I saw a second one, unfurling slowly. Within an hour, it was completely open, and remained so all night. This morning it is gently closing.
It’s called a moonflower because it blooms during the night (and probably also because it’s white). However, for me it’s really a star flower. The star design at the centre reminds me that I am a star at my core (as are you), and it’s important to let that star quality shine for everyone to see!
A star is born! ~ photo by Julie Wise
With such beauty greeting you in the morning, you can’t help but feel good about the day!
Morning Glory! ~ photo by Julie Wise
It may take two to tango, but apparently in the world of the red-necked grebe, it also takes two to sit on a nest.
This pair of grebes has been building and rebuilding their nest for several months. Although they do leave the nest periodically, they both seem to take their parenting responsibilities very seriously. To the point where they sit on the nest together.
I guess it’s true that it takes a community to raise a child, even in the bird kingdom.
Somewhere under there lies an egg. ~ Photo by Julie Wise
Last week, as we were out enjoying a lovely sail, the wind began to shift and pick up. We took one sail down and the wind got stronger, so we decided it was time to head back to the marina.
As my partner reached down and over to pull the cord to start the motor, a rogue wind caught the main sail and sent the boat onto its edge. I was at the helm and the tiller flew out of my hand. I had the sudden image of my partner going headfirst into the water with me not far behind.
In my panic, I said some unprintable things very loudly, while he calmly reached over and let out the main sail. The boat righted itself with ease.
Under normal circumstances, I know to do that. But in the midst of momentary chaos, apparently my mind takes a leave of absence.
Guess I’m still learning! Aren’t we all?
And isn’t that the joy of living? So much still to learn 🙂
Sailing, sailing…
I was watching a great blue heron one day. It stood motionless at the edge of a small lake, yet every cell of its being was intently focused on what was happening in the water by its legs.
Suddenly it lunged forward and plucked a fish from the water with its long beak. Hunger satisfied!
Photo by Julie Wise
Focus is the ability to ignore distractions and to tune in to what you want.
Focus matters.
Yesterday is history; tomorrow mere possibility.
What we have is this moment.
Savouring the moment ~ photo by Julie Wise
Nature shares so generously.
What can we give in return?
On Golden Pond…can you spot the cygnets? (photo by Julie Wise)
