morning cup

Today I began what will be a very long process....weaning myself off of coffee. I have been in love with coffee since I began working in a coffee shop in my college days. It actually took several years, and several coffee shop jobs, before I even took a sip of that hypnotizing chocolate-colored seductress, but once I did I was hooked. I've never been someone to drink more than one cup a day, but that one cup is something I savor every swallow of. I enjoy the entire experience: the earthy scent of the grinds as they are scooped into the filter, the sound of the coffee gurgling its way into the carafe, the strong aroma that begins to dance and swirl around the kitchen, seeping out down the hallways of your house until it finds your nose in the next room, filling one of my many favorite mugs (my current favorite posted above), feeling the gentle heat against my groggy hands, and the long journey as I sip my way into a new day. My goodness....why am I giving it up again?

forever drawn to wood

Leave it to me...I will always find a glorious looking piece of wood wherever I may be. I feel so much appreciation and awe for these beautiful beasts of nature. I can hardly explain it, I will continue to try repeatedly though (because it's often a topic roaming around my brain). At any rate, here are a few pieces of wood I found on a spontaneous hike taken along the Hudson River in Saugerties, NY.

genuine demeanor

Children might be the perfect blend of all that inspires me to take pictures. I cannot get enough of the genuine demeanor that paints itself across their faces, and the beautiful aliveness felt through their images. My little niece Lila is one of my favorite subjects because she not only embodies those attributes, but also possesses one of the most gentle, magnetic souls I've ever known on a human being (of any age).