Focus.

This one simple word can have such a enormous impact; it, both positively and negatively, impacts our everyday life, depending greatly upon what we choose to focus on.

My eyes have always looked through an artistic filter, scanning the landscape for lines that seemingly move on their own, textures that contrast one another, and for the pleasant unexpected bursts of color in unsuspecting places. I have counted that as one of my blessings many times over in my life. I often wonder how many people have simply not seen the hidden beauty in the stillness of every moment, only because they passed by too quickly in a rush, or were searching the far off horizon for something big and bright. What negativity has drawn our attention away from the everyday treasures that are only for us, depriving us of simple pleasures?

At any given point in our lives, we are given both positive and negative circumstances, influences, and individuals to deal with. The only aspect of our lives that we have control over, is what we focus on. We can not control what others see, nor do we have control over how they react. And so very often, there are a number of circumstances that we wind up in that no one had control over. But when we put our energy into focusing on things that are negative, we often miss the beauty in our life that is right there, already within our grasp. That realization often brings with it a renewed sense of fulfillment. Amazingly, it refreshes a tired soul, equipping it for another day to seek and exploring current and new landscapes alike, collecting beauty at every step of the journey.

What do I choose to focus on that grounds my soul when it feels as if life is a constant uphill climb?

Kindness, positivity, faith, honesty,
friendship, loyalty, courage, and love.

I am taking my own advice, and I’m putting my energy back into focusing on the people and things that bring joy and beauty into my life. And as a reminder, today, I finally ordered my birthday gift from a dear friend. Quite some time ago, she had commented on how I don’t have any of my photography displayed in my home, with the obvious exception of a few photos of my daughter! For two months, the gift certificate for a large canvas print has sat here, just waiting for my decision of what to choose. But today, I knew that this photo is what I need to display.

If you are interested in your own reminder with my “Focus” image, available in a print with and without text, and also on various products, then please make make sure to visit

my photography shop on Zazzle.

(My graphic design and illustration work is also still available here.)