Photography, Appreciation and 2017

f3.2 @ 1/160 ISO 100

While it might be just another Sunday morning for Reflections, it's hardly typical for what I'd like to share. It's my last post for 2017 and what a fantastic year it's been. I don't want to do the typical wrap-up sharing the highs and lows of the past twelve months, with two exceptions, the photographs in this post.

Shot with a LUMIX FZ300, the flowers above are one of my favorites for the past year. I've spent my entire career in photography, and while my passion is helping you with the marketing side of the business, I'll match my love for the craft with anybody. Always having a camera with me was relatively new this year and it's all thanks to Panasonic.

As the year comes to a close, it's hard to find the words to describe my appreciation to all of you, my readers. Your feedback has been never-ending giving me an incredible foundation for projects in the year ahead. There are a lot of new things coming, each one designed to help you build a stronger business in 2018. It's an old tagline, but the goal is to help you THRIVE, not just survive!

We're looking forward to more live connections at conventions, trade shows, and conferences. There are a couple of new podcasts coming your way and some new friendships with specialists in business, marketing, and customer service; all focused on sharing new ideas to make your life better and business stronger!

The second photograph is also representative of the year because it was captured by a good friend! Sherry Hagerman was one of several good friends who wandered in and out of Sarasota this year. She joined us one sunset at the Nokomis Beach drum circle early in 2017.  What she captured became Sheila and my favorite shot of the two of us. It captures the way we try and live our life!

It's perfect to run alongside our New Year's wish to all of you.
Since Sheila introduced me to Melody Beattie many years ago, it's so appropriate to share a quote from one of her books on the last day of the year. I've shared it in the past, but it's timeless:

"Wait, and expect good things - for yourself and your loved ones. When you wonder what is coming tell yourself the best is coming, the very best life and love have to offer...See the best in your mind; envision what it will look like, what it will feel like..."

Wishing you a day that seems endless in its sense of peace and joy bringing the year to a close. Appreciate the time you have with family and friends, close the door on the frustrations of the past year and go into 2018 with a renewed sense of purpose, direction and always love. And, never miss an opportunity for an eleven-second hug!

Happy New Year!

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