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Jan M. Flynn's avatar

A lovely, generous, wise post, Julia. One of the great pleasures of living this long is to have come to a place where I no longer feel in competition or comparison with anyone — and yes, I used to, and yes, it led me down all kinds of twisty paths with signposts leading to grandiosity and self-condemnation. Nowadays I get to marvel at all the gifts others display, like your friend Sonja, and then go about doing what I can with mine.

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JULIA HUBBEL's avatar

That is the goddess, Jan, and what we don’t see when we spend so damned much time mourning youth. The goddess gives: wisdom, perspective, grace. Thank you.

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Gary Gruber's avatar

Seeing the world with a new perspective, what a joy! Up close and far away, the larger and smaller views framed differently, the details and the whole picture. Zooming in for a close up and out for a view from the distance. Looking through different lenses helps us to appreciate what we may have overlooked previously. You've inspired me, leaving tomorrow for a few days at the beach and will look with eyes wide open, thank you, and thanks to Sonja too! 🙏🏼

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Kristi Keller 🇨🇦's avatar

I swear you live in one of the most stunning places on earth. And most people would say, "It's just another state." Those photos breathe life into my soul!

The last few days I took off to live my best "lake life" in BC. The scenery was also gorgeous, just in a different way. On my drive home through the mountains I pulled off at a sign that read Dog Lake, thinking it would be a nice spot to let Dezi dip her toes. But when I drove up the narrow road and found a little parking area it wasn't a lake at all. It was a forest FILLED with fall colors that dazzled the senses. I spent half an hour in there taking photos of leaves lol. I wish I could attach pics here but I'll probably post them in a note this week.

Thank you for sharing this Julia. Beautiful message in many ways!

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JULIA HUBBEL's avatar

I do, Kristi. Don't forget, you and your furball are welcome any time.

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Kristi Keller 🇨🇦's avatar

Funny, I just got home from a short getaway last night, saw your post and said, I NEED to get there. I am 100% planning to come visit now, but probably next year since weather will be iffy for winter. Plus, I’ve heard I’ll need to research what’s needed to cross the border with Dezi. My aunt and uncle recently told me they’ve really changed things regarding bringing dogs stateside.

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JULIA HUBBEL's avatar

Keep me posted. Even if your pupper can't come 😡we can discuss.

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Kristi Keller 🇨🇦's avatar

I'm sure she'll be able to! Just hoop-jumping. And you'll be the first to know when I'm coming 😊

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Fierce Goat's avatar

Hi Kristi! What a beautiful story. Nature is full of wonder. And you were open AND present to see it! This makes for a wonderful glimmer. Especially since you took the time to take it in AND to write about it.

I have been enjoying the first few days of autumn on the opposite side of Canada, about 20 minutes from the Atlantic Ocean. The leaves have started changing colours and the air is getting crisper! There is beauty all around me if I look with eyes wide open! Soak it up in every fiber of my being...and re-play it in my mind so I can smile and laugh all over again.

Re-play...Hahahhahahahhahaha! My light bulb just went on. Julia - this goes well with your signature - Let's Play!

I can play and, when I do, I get to re-play via my glimmers!

Have a wonderful day,

Lise-Fierce Goat

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Sheila (of Ephemera)'s avatar

What a lovely tribute to your artist friend. 💕

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JULIA HUBBEL's avatar

Thank you Sheila.

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Beth L. Gainer's avatar

Julia, this is a beautiful post, and your friend Sonja and you are true artists. I love your insightful words, and the photos are simply to die for; what beauty and joy in the world!

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JULIA HUBBEL's avatar

Thanks again Beth!

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Susan Niemann's avatar

Your friend is an artist alright. Stunning photography. And your dog is precious. ❤️

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