Just a sliver can be seen!

Day 100

Tonight, as the sun was setting over Lake Winnisquam,  I could see the little sliver of the crescent moon, as that was also setting. You can barely see it in this photo, but still is impressive hanging in the sky, over the lake.
I am grateful everyday for the opportunity to witness the beauty that surrounds us. I hope I never take it for granted!

Wishing you a peaceful night, and sweet dreams!

Spring is here!

Day 91

Finally, the birds are back!  Everything is coming to life!
I have seen this woodpecker around my yard the last few weeks, but today, I was grateful that he stayed in one place long enough for me to get this shot!  He was working hard, digging for bugs.
I also went to the pond in Gilmanton, and the blue heron are back!  I feel like I know all these families of birds now.  Looking forward to another year of great photo opps!

Waiting

Day 89

Today is the last day of March.  It is suppose to be almost 70 degrees and really feels like spring.
I am so grateful for this time of year because everything comes to life again.
This beautiful marsh is about to become active with all the wonderful wildlife that live here.
But, for today, I am just waiting to see it.  I think it will be very soon.

Don't Assume

Day 77

The sky turned gray this afternoon, with the threat of a snow storm tonight.  I looked out the window before the sun was setting, and it didn't look like much was happening, as far as a nice sunset.
I didn't think of going out for a pic, after that.  About 1/2 hour later, my husband wanted to go for ice cream.  As we were driving toward Dairy Queen I noticed a little pink as the sun went down.  We picked up his ice cream and headed toward home. As we approached Lake Opechee, I decided to pull in to get a shot of the amazing sunset that was appearing before us!  For just a few minutes this beauty unfolded, which I am grateful for.
  Even the geese were delighted!

Another day at the ocean!

Day 76

 Again, we took a ride to the coast.  I really didn't expect to see another snowy owl, but there he was, sitting behind a fence at Rye Harbor.  These photos of him are really not that clear, mainly because the wind was shaking my camera while I was trying to focus on him.  I was quite a distance away. I think he has something in his talon that he caught.  He was also getting ready for lunch!
I am always amazed and grateful,  when I see these wonderful birds.  I'm sure they will be heading back soon to the tundra.

We couldn't go back home until we had lunch at Petey's Seafood.  Such a great place!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

Day 74

What a day!
Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Today, I was grateful to visit an elderly customer and friend,  Doris, who had a little mishap and is in the nursing home for a while.  She comes into the salon every week to have her hair set and considers this experience her highlight for the week.  She was happy to see me and I was able to do her hair while I was there.  She was very appreciative, and I was happy to make her feel so good!

When I left, I noticed how awesome the sky was looking.  I took a little ride to the lake and captured some impressive storm clouds.  I love these clouds. They change very quickly and create some interesting formations.  We kept dodging the actual rain, but it was all around us.

A special Irish Prayer for you:

 MAY GOD GIVE YOU......
FOR EVERY STORM, A RAINBOW,
FOR EVERY TEAR, A SMILE,
FOR EVERY CARE, A PROMISE,
AND A BLESSING IN EACH TRIAL.
FOR EVERY PROBLEM LIFE SENDS,
A FAITHFUL FRIEND TO SHARE,
FOR EVERY SIGH, A SWEET SONG,
AND AN ANSWER FOR EACH PRAYER.

Glorious Morning!

Day 73

This morning was what I would call a "10"!
I was so grateful that I went out early to catch the sunrise.  The beauty that is in our area takes my breath away sometimes.  I first captured a beautiful pre-sunrise.  Brilliant reds and orange were once again present before the sun rose.  Then, this incredible reflection filled with puffy clouds and mist rising up, near Weirs Beach.  A few minutes later, I captured wonderful loons and geese, peacefully swimming through the fog, with the sun rising as the background.
I love this time of year when everything comes to life again.
Wishing you all many blessings today!

Fire in the sky

Day 71

I am so grateful that I got outside early today to capture this amazing sunrise!
I had a feeling there would be some color today because of the low clouds and the rain forecast.
Today, as in most cases, these bright colors on last for a few minutes.
I always feel good to start my day with bright color, it's energizing!
May your day be filled with happiness.

The moon, clouds and jet vapor

Day 70

I was in Connecticut visiting my son and his family, which I am always grateful for.

We were outside enjoying the day and noticed this unusual sky! So cool!

Grand old tree

Day 69
What a beautiful day, after the rain we had yesterday.
We took a ride through the countryside and came across this wonderful old maple tree.  It must be pretty old. It looks like mother nature gave this tree a helping limb, to hold the main part of the tree up.
I wish I was a kid again, I would be climbing all over these limbs! I'm grateful that I was able to see this great tree. I hope it lasts for many more years!

Dodging the rain

Day 68
I had to laugh today when I saw these geese running in the rain. It looked like they were afraid to get wet!
I am grateful for the rain.  It really feels like a spring rain, even though it's early March.
I hope this is an indication that spring is right around the corner.  I think these geese agree!

Unexpected

Day 65

I went out early today to catch a sunrise because it looked like it would be colorful.  I drove to a place where I could get a nice wide exposure,  overlooking Lake Opechee.  Just as I was getting ready to take the shot of the sunrise, this fox appeared in front of me.  Of course my focus was then on him, and not the sunrise.  He was pretty fast, running across the field. I only got a few shots, trying to get the settings on my camera right.  Even though it's not the best focus, I am grateful that I got it at all.
I did get a few shots of the sunrise, but I was more excited to see the fox!
 This has happened to me numerous times, usually when I'm out early.  I go out looking at the sky, and an unexpected surprise appears in front of me, in the form of an animal or bird.  That's what I love about photography!

Building the nest

Day 64

While on the cape, we took a walk near a pond in Sandwich.  Here, the swans were building their nest. I am grateful for my brother, Jeff, for taking us to this location.

I could have stayed here for hours, watching the process. Carefully, they placed grass and twigs in the nest. The female, called a pen, seemed to be nesting on it for a short time. The male, called the cob, was helping and guarding his family.
I hope to go back in the near future to see if their "cygnets" have been born yet.

What's important

Day 63

I spent some of the weekend on Cape Cod, celebrating a birthday of a family friend, Joe.
A wonderful party, hosted by my sister-in-law, Diane, and my brother Bob.
Awesome friends, amazing food, many laughs and my wonderful family.  I feel so  blessed and grateful to have these people in my life.  My daughter, Gail, and many nieces and nephews and friends, made this night so special.
This photo, which I will treasure is of my sister, Anita, brother Bobby, me and my brother Jeff.
This is what is important in life to me; family.

Another great day

Day 62
I am grateful for this day.  We had an easy day at work, creating some awesome color and cuts.  I was able to leave a little early today, which is unusual for a Friday.
The weather was crazy.  Light snow, sun, snow, sun and snow together, and then this fabulous sunset!
I never get bored!
Wishing you a restful night. Sweet dreams!

Ridges

Day 59

The clouds were so interesting tonight.  Ridges were imbedded into the sky, giving me the feel of wind blown sand in the desert.
I am grateful that I was able to capture this on my way home.   I love the sky and I'm always taking photos of it, because it's ever changing.

Afternoon Delight

Day 58

Just a beautiful late afternoon scene at Weirs Beach.
I was grateful the rain stopped and left this wonderful sky in its place.
We are so fortunate to live in a place that so picturesque!

Beautiful ending

Day 57
What a gorgeous day today! We took a ride to Mt. Washington again and I got some great photos of the mountains, waterfalls and birch trees.  I decided to see if I could catch the sunset tonight.
What a great surprise!
 I am grateful for this day and hope everyone enjoyed it as much as I did!

Surprise!

Day 56

I took a ride today to Plum Island, Newburyport, Ma. hoping to see some wildlife.  When we started to drive through the wildlife preserve, we did not see anything!  After a few minutes there were a few Canadian Geese in the marsh, but nothing exciting.  I said to my husband, I wish I could see a big migration of something!  A minute later, I went around a bend in the road and BAM, hundreds of Canadian Geese were taking flight.  I couldn't believe how many were there. I don't know if they were flying in, or were already there, but it was quite a sight!

Within a minute they began to go into formation, with one leader in front.  Then, they spread out in one huge horizontal line.  So impressive!

I am so grateful to witness the wonders of nature!

Breathing the sea air

Day 54

I was so grateful that we decided to take a ride to the ocean again today.  It started out cloudy, and all of a sudden the sun came out.  Incredible waves pounding surf!  I have never seen the ocean this wild.  We even saw a snowy owl on someone's roof.  Awesome day!

Full Snow Moon

Day 51
What a great day for photography!  A few country shots, an amazing sunset to the west, and then I turned around to the east, and captured the moonrise!
I am always grateful when I can catch a moon rise, especially on the night it is full.
This moonrise is in Laconia at a location I often photograph. It's always different and I really love it!

Ombre Balyage Class

Day 48
I was grateful today for the class we had at the salon.  It was a color class, using the Tocco Magico color line.  It's always a good thing to freshen up on technique and also teach some of our newer hair designers this particular service called "Ombre Balyage".  It is a gradual change of color from dark to light, or vice versa.  You can create all different looks, depending on how you paint the color on.  So pretty when done!

Living on the edge

Day 47

I couldn't believe what I saw this afternoon when I went to the lake.  There are very few bob houses on the lake because the ice just barely caught.  Yet, this man, had his bob house about 20' from the open water, which has a current. He had one tip-up near his house, and as you can see, he was only a few feet from the open water, with his arm in another hole, setting up a tip up.  I don't know why he wasn't sitting in that little boat like sled that is beside the bob house! Plus, it was freezing!
I was grateful that I was taking this photo sitting in my car.  I kept wandering what I would do if he fell through the ice.  But, as I was leaving, he stood up and went into the bob house! Whew!

Sweet Dreams

Day 46
After a busy day at work, I am grateful for a warm house, a good dinner and a comfy bed.   I always enjoy my work, but also look forward to some quiet time.
May this night bring you sweet dreams!

Swinging Temps

Day 45
On Sunday, the temperature was somewhere around -15 degrees in our town.  Today, Tuesday, the temperature rose to 50 degrees!
 These frosted branches is what I saw when I got to work, after we had snow and freezing rain.  I like the looks of the ice covering the branches.  But, I was grateful that when I got out of work, everything had melted.  I was like a spring rain coming down with a pretty strong wind.

This is what New England is about. Like the saying goes, if you don't like the weather, just wait a minute!

Preening on a branch

Day 44

I love when I run to the store, the long way around, and capture wildlife in my travels.  Of course, I am always grateful for the opportunity to see any wildlife, especially eagles.
This handsome eagle was just sitting up in a tree preening himself. I watched him for a little while, hoping he would fly down to the water to catch a fish, but he must have already eaten before I got there!

Happy Valentine's Day

Day 43

Freezing cold morning, - 10 degrees, without the wind chill!  But it warmed up quickly with all the love notes, quotes and gifts being exchanged in my family and with my friends.  I wish these warm thoughts continued every day!
I was going to go back to the ocean to see if I could get a good photo of "sea smoke".  But I was grateful I drove around the town, and noticed it was right here!  I don't know if you still call it "sea" smoke, if it's in the river? Whatever you call it, it was quite beautiful.  Because this only happens when the air is colder than the water, it's always an ethereal effect.  The smoke dances softly on the water, as wind gently blows, as if it was moving to music.
I guess it was quite appropriate for a day of love!

Red-tailed Hawk

Day 42
Today I ran around doing errands, always with my camera.  I never know what I might see along the way.
I am grateful that I went by this tree, with a wonderful red-tailed hawk perched,  enjoying the sun's rays.  That's one of the good things about winter.  You are able to spot wildlife easily without the leaves on the trees.
We are all preparing for the frigid temps coming tonight.  I hope this hawk finds good shelter!

Sunset over Paugus Bay

Day 41
I'm grateful for this day.  I was busy at work, giving people great hairstyles.  Everyone was happy when they left, and that always makes me feel good!
I was afraid I had missed the sunset, but fortunately, the best was right before me.   I always enjoy a sunset like this. It's like an explanation point for the end of a great day!

What a start!

Day 40

I am so grateful that I caught this beautiful sunrise this morning.  It always lifts my spirit to start the day filled with color and beauty.
I hope your day is awesome!

Young Eagle

Day 39
 I was disappointed this morning when I missed the amazing sunrise.  Then I thought I would go to Lake Winnipesaukee to catch a nice landscape. But, when I got there, my focus was not on the view, but instead on a beautiful bald eagle that was just sitting on the ice on the lake. I took a few photos, which were from quite a distance.  You could tell it was an eagle, but really a little out of focus.
I then decided to drive a little further along the shore. Suddenly I came across another eagle on the ice, this one being a little closer to the shore.  But, when I zoomed in, I noticed this was a young eagle. He has not yet developed his white head or tail.  Probably a year or two old. He just sat there looking around.  I think his mom must have been the first eagle I saw, because they really weren't that far apart.
I am so grateful that I took that ride this morning!  This is the 4th eagle I have seen this week!

Time for my makeover?

Day 37
I came across a herd of cows, some of which I think are Scottish Highland cattle.  They had huge horns, and all that floppy hair in their faces.  I love them!  They are so interesting looking.  I really felt like I should have brought my scissors with me! This cutie turned to check me out, while having his lunch.
I am grateful I took the route I took.  They really put a smile on my face!

Frosty sunrise

Day 36

I was out early today hoping for a great sunrise.  I went to one of my favorite spots, in Meredith Bay.
I was not disappointed! So beautiful as the sun came up, although it was only 16 degrees! There is always someplace wonderful to explore in this area.
I am grateful for this day! I hope your day is awesome!

Eagle

Day 35

While waiting for the sun to set over Lake Winnisquam, I was about to leave and out of the corner of my eye, I saw the eagle slowly flying low over the lake.  I was grateful that I was able to get a few shots as he went by me.  So majestic and confident, the eagle always appears to be in control of his territory.   I was happy that I waited the few extra minutes today!

OOPS!

Day 35

This crazy, warm winter has left many wondering if they will be able to enjoy any winter sports,  such as ice fishing.  I am grateful that I was not in this bobhouse fishing today!  As I traveled around Lake Winnipesaukee today, much of the lake was not frozen.  There were a few places, such as this area in Alton Bay, that had a little ice.  I guess in this case, it was really little ice!

Happy Anniversary!

Day 33

47 years ago today, my husband Vinnie and I got married. I still don't know why we chose February 2, Groundhog Day!
These years have gone by so fast, with all the ups and downs that come with marriage, I am so grateful for all of it! These days shape and mold us into the people we are meant to be.
The most wonderful gift of all has been our children and grandchildren, all of whom we dearly love.
Tonight, my daughter Gail and her son, Cody, took us out to dinner to celebrate. We will always be grateful for them!
Cheers!

Oh what a wonderful morning!

Day 32

Continuing our stay in Maine, this morning I ventured out on the Marginal Way, in Ogunquit.  We were staying in a hotel, right there. Of course Vinnie was too lazy to get up, but I was determined to catch the sunrise.
The trail was clear of ice and snow, with the exception of a few places.
I was so grateful that I decided to take this morning walk.  How beautiful was this sunrise!  It is February 1st and it feels like spring!  I met a few people also walking, taking photos, and they all had a big smile, and a warm "good morning" greeting.   The sky was just a blaze of glorious colors. The sea air was mild and refreshing, as the seagulls went flying by.
Mornings like this make my day!

Loving Nubble Light

Day 31

What a wonderful weekend!  I'm grateful for the amazing weather, great food, and overall relaxing stay! We started the morning looking for sea glass, and had great success! If course I had to visit this great place,  Nubble Light House. I got some great shots of the sunset and waves, but loved this display of hearts, and teddy bears, mounted on a tree of lobster traps!
It definitely shows the love of this well known area.

All is well

Day 30

An easy going day, with this amazing sunset, all I could think of is "all is well"
I am grateful for days like this.

Cedar Waxwings

Day 29

I love Cedar Waxwings.  I saw them for the fist time 2 years ago, quite by accident. I didn't know what they were.  They remind me of little masked bandits, with a black band across their eyes. They also have  beautiful colors. This year, I had not seen any, until today.
I am grateful that I left work when I did , because they were all setting in a tree right where I was parked. They were eating the berries on the crabapple trees and were there just long enough for me to get a few pics!