This is a re-blog of one of the very first posts I pusblished. It is also one of my favorites … but since it was one of my firsts, no one saw it. Maybe someone will this time!
Most of the time I am in a pretty upbeat mood, with no lack of energy or enthusiasm for what the day holds in store. And then there are other days. The ones when I seem to be focusing only on the negative instead of all the good in my life. More accurately when I find myself starting to wallow in self pity. It would be easy to stay in that world, to drift in that woe is me attitude. Something has to be done to banish the black clouds and quickly!
Some choose exercise, others music or prayer, assuredly others choose drink.
For me and for many, the soothing balm is water.
Thankfully I have friends with water craft and I now have a truck. One quick text to Debbie and Sandy I am on the way to pick up a kayak. Within 20 minutes of getting a “come and get it” reply, I am putting in at the Sportsman, ready to paddle around below the dam. Just me, and a few other guys fishing.
It is amazing how quickly my mood begins to improve. The colors of the late afternoon, the coolness of the water, and the lower temperatures of the air all begin to elevate my spirit.
The lushness of the trees ..
The opportunity to practice photography
Even the bridge over the New River provides a beautiful setting for a photo shoot, and soon I don’t even hear the noise of the tractor trailers going by.
In no time, my heart and soul feel better.
I enjoy the occasional chat with a passing fisherman who asks me if I’m having any luck. Knowing that after 20 minutes, I finally get what for me is the perfect picture of a Blue Heron, I enthusiastically say that I am!!
As many have said before me, I am reminded again of just how fortunate I am to live in such a gorgeous area of the country and indeed to have friends like Debbie and Sandy who were ready and waiting with kayak, life jacket and paddle to send me on my way without questioning my grumpy mood. I am grateful.
Friends, water, and a lovely evening: mission accomplished … foul mood gone … peace restored!
Life on the Bike and other Fab Things 
Laurie,
Your positive mood and beautiful pictures brightened my day!
and your comments made MY day! Thanks so much!
This was so beautiful. And so honest and open. Thank you, dear friend. (and you can also borrow my kayak anytime too!)
Thanks, as always, Liz.
We have a Rubbermaid tub filled with water on the deck for Lucy. I’m sure she’d be willing to share. The photos are beautiful! I had nothing to do with this. You have an eye. Natural talent! LOVE the leaf on the water. Felt like I could reach out and grab it. Have a peaceful 4th.
Wow! That;s a huge complement from you, Ruth! It means a lot to me! And yes, I’ll be down to hang with Lucy in the pool 🙂
I agree with Ruth; you do have an eye. with these pictures, you lovingly brought us all with you in your journey. the leaf is also my favorite ~it exhibits both stillness and movement together. simple, beautiful.
Jan … love you and so good to talk with you last night. Great to hear your voice!
Ahhhh….I feel calm and restored having read your comments and enjoyed the beautiful pictures–I also was particularly taken with the leaf.
Thanks Cindy …so glad you enjoyed the pictures. Have a great trip out to Colorado.
Love the blue heron shot…unreal.
Laurie – I so enjoy this little mini connection I have with you reading your words and seeing your pictures. It’s a bit selfish on my end as you don’t know that it makes me happy to read your blog and that I know you – thus this litle comment. Now you know 🙂 Thanks for the “refreshment” – words, pictures – water!
oh my it is so good to hear from you, Laurie! and to know you are reading, makes it even better … I love knowing you are out there still over all the many years we have known each other.
Pingback: Photography: Film to Digital, Point and Shoot to Super Zoom | Life on the Bike and other Fab Things
Reblogged this on Life on the Bike and other Fab Things.