Recently I decided to close my Etsy shop at the end of 2016 for a variety of reasons, but the main reason being my desire to make space for something new. My Etsy shop is now closed. I’m happy with my decision. It feels great to be contemplating what new projects I might take on.
For now, I’m keeping space open until I become certain of the next right project(s). Initially I was tempted to jump into re-designing my website, creating my own shop using Woo-commerce plug-ins. But I’m not sure that I want to continue selling prints of my photographs. So many of us have so much stuff already. Do we really need my photographs on the walls too?
So I’m in the in-between space of ending one project and waiting for the next one to emerge. It’s not often that I give myself the luxury of being in this space. It feels so spacious—full of endless possibilities. It seems fitting to be at this place as 2016 ends and 2017 begins.
My family is also living in an in-between space, adjusting to the sudden tragic loss of my sister-in-law in a car accident on Christmas Eve Day and being with my severely injured brother who is in the hospital in Iowa. For my nephews it is a sudden and wrenching change. Life will never be the same.
It was a reminder to me that life is short and uncertain. I’m making sure to tell my friends and family that I love them at every opportunity and giving and receiving many hugs, as well as savoring each moment of ordinary beauty in ordinary days.
Recently I revisited some photos I made in December 2013 of trumpeter swans on the Mississippi River in Monticello, MN, re-editing several photos with the tools and skills that I have acquired since then. It was such fun to go through the photos with the eye and skills that I’ve developed, finding new ways to express my appreciation for the grace and beauty of these amazing birds.
This afternoon I am heading over to Hudson, WI with 3 photographer friends to photograph trumpeter swans on the St. Croix River
“Tonight I heard Louis’s horn. My father heard it, too. The wind was right, and I could hear the notes of taps, just as darkness fell. There is nothing in all the world I like better than the trumpet of the swan.”
― E.B. White, The Trumpet of the Swan
Not everyone loves trumpeter swans — you either love them or you say as one of my other photographer friends, “Another damn swan picture.” Whichever you are, I wish you a Happy New Year. May you find beauty in ordinary moments and savor time with loved ones today and always.
If you are interested in seeing and hearing a gathering of trumpeter swans, take a look at this article for information on where and when to visit Monticello.
May you walk in beauty.
A lamentation of swans
Gliding in for a landing as mist rises
Spread your wings
Mallards and Canadian Geese hanging out with Trumpeter Swans
A wide view of the many birds gathered
Swan Trio
4 Comments
Ruth · December 31, 2016 at 5:49 pm
Happy New Year Marilyn!!! We are praying for your family with serious accident and the loss for the family. Wishing you continued Blessings as you move forward. Hugs, much Love and Peace.
Ruth Brackmann
Marilyn · January 1, 2017 at 1:40 am
Thanks so much Ruth. Everyone has been so kind and thoughtful. Gary is making slow progress we think.
Joanne Engelking · December 31, 2016 at 6:38 pm
Beautiful photos of swans. I know it’s difficult to photograph white birds against white snow or misty water, but your enhancements are lovely. I wish you much success in following the path life leads your career. And, I think of your family’s loss often and send healing thoughts and prayers as you all learn to live without a loved one. Cherish the memories. Take care of yourself.
Joanne Engelking
Marilyn · January 1, 2017 at 1:40 am
Thank you Joanne!