Look back. Smile back.

 

Another Christmas slipped away.  The last week of the year is that nebulous time we are not sure about –  either we want it to last longer, or jump straight into the New Year.  Some people spend this time frantically trying to tie up loose ends; some are adding fresh illusions to their New Year’s resolution lists; some just enjoy these unstructured, lazy days.

It is not uncommon for people to look back at the year that was.

Did anything extraordinary happen to you in 2015? The most extraordinary thing I can think about is that I have seen the Blood Moon twice  – first in the US in April, and then in Ireland in September.

moon usa

moon eire

My daughter and her family have been  a source of joy,  as always. My friends were always there for me too.  I cannot recall any major disappointments.

Chicago

I have met amazing people…

…and had fun.

I appreciate friendship…

… but I can go solo if need be.

Christmas is about family and home. New Year is about our global family. If you ever stood in the city square during the New Year’s Eve countdown, you know what I mean.

Look back, and smile back – you have had happy moments, you have overcome adversity, you have been appreciated. Look ahead and don’t be afraid.  Another 366 (!) days of photography, writing, painting,  studying, traveling, reading and pondering.  You will find exactly what you are looking for. Living is the best opportunity for being victorious.

Happy, prosperous, safe, healthy, amazing New Year to you all!

With much love

Inese

 

134 comments

  2. There is so much that is delightful here.
    “Look back. Smile back.”
    “The older I get the less surprised I am about anything.”
    Then, of course, your exquisite photography and your vibrant spirit that is evident in it all! Thank you for this life-giving blog!
    Happy New Year to you and your loved ones.
    – Julia

  3. ” The older I get the less surprise I get” The virtues of maturity, but you have to be surprise by seeing the two blood moons, common, most people saw one, who in the world saw two? I think you´re probably one in 8 billion people in this planet. You might as well get into the Guiness book of world records.

    1. Haha thank you Charly! It was a fun experience indeed – April eclipse was visible only from the North America. I just happened to be there for a picture 🙂

  6. Ps I saw the blood moon in September outside of NYC and it was amazing to witness !

    1. Isn’t it. My moons differ in color because one picture was taken in the city, and the other in complete darkness in the country side. Unfortunately I don’t own a telescopic lens to bring the moon closer, but just watching the show was enough to make me happy 🙂

  7. What an absolutely beautiful post! A lovely way to look back at your 2015 and ahead to 2016! I shall do the same, keeping this in mind!

  12. Hi Inese,

    I have altered my last comment re- our communications earlier today and wanted to send you a copy:

    ‘I can see that.

    Thanks – I’m both learning and learning about you.

    One of the things I have learnt through our exchange is that to ‘be born in Ireland’ is clearly not the same as to ‘be born Irish’ (the expression I used, and my poor choice of words).

    Where the former refers only to a place of birth, the latter implies a cultural orientation. I was born in Australia (not a matter of my choosing) and while I live in this country which I believe I understand, I am an Australian citizen. But that certainly doesn’t make me ‘Australian’ – someone who subscribes to and upholds what this culture is – which I don’t and of which I am extremely critical.

    And that before I get to my global perspective’.’

    Best wishes,

    Filippo del mondo

    1. Thank you Francis! I have shared things during the year. It would be impossible to fit everything in this last post 🙂 Have a happy 2016!

      1. Thank you, Inese 🙂 My English is still very basic but I wanted to say, I am happy to see the photographs and stories you shared with us the 2015. And the music in your youtube links, it’s quite beautiful the Irish music… Thank you and happy 2016!

  19. ‘some just enjoy these unstructured, lazy days’… yes that would describe this week … have a grand New Year Ms inese … I hope it is one of your best ,,, and someone special, family or friend, touches your heart and makes you smile the day long …
    g

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