Sitting in our living room with a cup of coffee is my morning ritual. It is quiet and time to reflect before starting the day’s journey. We put up a photo wall a few years ago to celebrate our various adventures and I sit and reflect with them, puppies by my side. I enjoy looking at those photos as it sparks memories of family, friends, triumphs, and adventures.
We also have our family wall with wedding pictures and the compulsory yearly school photos of the kids in our upstairs hallway. You know those awkward school photos.
I found some of my old ones when going through my mom’s things – now that is the real meaning of awkward! Just had to share!!
My mother was an avid photographer. She took photos at every family event, and she enjoyed the safety of being behind the lens. It gave her a purpose and also allowed her to show her artistic talent to others. I am definitely my mother’s daughter as I enjoy capturing my adventures in the woods and in my kayak – it is both a way to capture the moment and honor my mom.
Fall is one of my favorite times to take photos. A brief window of time as the leaves change into vibrant colors. I was out the other day, rambling down rocks to get a good picture of a waterfall. I met a woman and her young niece and chatted about the best path to the falls. As I was leaving, I heard the little girl say, that Grandma is going down there!? Guess I am an old lady, something I tend to forget – except when it comes to getting back up the hills. But, everything is doable taking one step at a time. I am never embarrassed to take a break mid-climb. A great analogy for life.
I continue to take one step at a time with my cancer journey as well. My PET scan showed no additional growth in the tumor. So, I will continue on the current oral medication instead of going on a clinical trial since the side effects are manageable.
Relishing one step, one moment at a time. I think, rather I KNOW that is why I enjoy meandering in the woods, or on my kayak. For those moments intent on capturing the beauty around me I forget that I have cancer. I actually forget about most everything, entranced by the glorious surroundings. I become that child in the woods, looking with wonder at the beauty and if I am lucky, capturing a glimpse of that wonder in my photographs.
FYI...I share way too many photos on Instagram under the name jcmesseri if you care to take a peek. :)
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