The busy season is upon us ~ Dec. 20th

As I finish up my holiday prep -- decorating my little tree, organizing my home, writing and mailing the Christmas cards -- I want to take a moment here to thank my blog readers for honoring me with their attention to this blog! I'd also like to remind everyone to take pleasure in the busyness of the season. It's a privilege to have loved ones in our lives for whom we can shop, wrap, mail, decorate, cook, and clean. And if it's getting to be just too much, find a quiet corner and take a brief timeout for yourself -- even if it's just 10 minutes with a cup of gingerbread cocoa at Starbucks. Take care of others, but take care of yourself too. And above all, make fun a priority this holiday season!

A Good Time to Remember Loved Ones

This blog has been sadly neglected as I've been busy the last couple of weeks writing copy for this client and this one and getting ready for Christmas. I did manage to buy my Christmas tree last Saturday, but it sits on my porch waiting patiently for me to find time to decorate it.





Yesterday the last of the out-of-state gifts were put in the mail, so that's one less thing to think about. By the end of the day tomorrow, I should be caught up with work. Then I'll take the weekend to clean and decorate my place. I'm looking forward to getting out the old favorite ornaments.

Since today is December 16th, my thoughts turn to two good women: my Grandma, who was born on this day in 1890. And my good friend Barb M., who departed this earth on December 16, 2005. I know they're both watching over me!



As you prepare to celebrate the holidays, please remember to take time to hug your loved ones. For one reason or another, they may not always be right there with you. With Hanukkah, Christmas, and the New Year, it's the perfect time to count your blessings and appreciate those who matter most! Neglect things like writing a blog or cleaning house? Sure -- it's not the end of the world. Neglect showing your love and affection? Never!

Wordless Wednesday ~ December 8th

I'm profiled at CGDSpa! Also don't miss my 30% off sale at Intuitive Photography!

Emily at CGDSpa, a wonderful Maine business that provides delicately scented hand lotions, body lotions, lip balms, and customized thank-you gifts, was kind enough to feature me on her blog. Her profile tells a little bit about my background, what inspires me, and what I've been doing lately with my Intuitive Photography. Click here to read her posting.



To share the blog and Maine biz love, and to give you all an incentive to buy fine-art photos for those on your holiday shopping list, I'm offering 30% off to all those who read Emily's GCDSpa blog or Beth's Take On Life. Simply go to Intuitive Photography and enter the coupon code GIVETHANKS at checkout. But don't wait too long! This sale ends December 8th.

Holiday sale at Intuitive Photography - 30% off now through Nov. 30th

I decided to get into the holiday shopping mode by offering my first ever sale in my online shop, Intuitive Photography! Now through November 30th, every photo in the shop is 30% off! I just started the promotion this morning, and I've already made my first sale! Thank you, Irene! Fine art photos make great holiday gifts, and I want to make it easier for folks to give one-of-a-kind photos that convey the spirit of Maine.



Irene chose Beach Bench, one of the many photos I've taken at the Maine Coast. But there are many different types of photos to choose from at Intuitive Photography, including my newest category, Industrial & Architectural.





Thank you to Casey & Donna for their purchase last week of No. 22, a photo I captured while walking near the Narrow Gauge Railway in Portland, Maine.







I'm always intrigued by unusual lettering, and I spotted several examples of it on buildings and railroad cars while out shooting recently by the Portland waterfront.



The classic Maine lighthouse, Portland Head Light, is a favorite subject of mine in any season.



And of course Pemaquid Light is another iconic Maine lighthouse that I can't get enough of.


So if you get a chance today, stop by Intuitive Photography and see what kinds of photos I've been taking lately, here in the great state of Maine!

Happy Thanksgiving! ~ November 25th

"When you arise in the morning, give thanks for the morning light, for your life and strength. Give thanks for your food, and the joy of living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies with yourself."
-- Tecumseh Shawnee Chief (American-Indian Warrior, 1768-1813)



"Develop an attitude of gratitude, and give thanks for everything that happens to you, knowing that every step forward is a step toward achieving something bigger and better than your current situation.”
-- Brian Tracy (American television host)

Wordless Wednesday ~ November 24th

[This photo is available for sale here ]