Inspiration Photo Friday: Contentment

07 Friday Jun 2013

Posted by melissaoconnor in Inspiration Photo Friday

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appreciation, beauty, contentment, evolve, family, friends, growth, happiness, life, love, nature, relationships

Today is a windy and cold morning here on the island. There is a storm coming our way so the air is fresh and everything has a dewy look. I love how this weather makes all the trees, grass, and plants a more prominent green. When the beauty of nature is accented, it makes you see the world a little bit different.

I stepped outside my back door today to let my dogs out and just took in how pretty my yard looked. Every time I am back there, I appreciate it more and more. The fact that I am content with where I am in my life and where I have chosen to build a family, surely makes me happy. My past has brought a lot of things, but feeling content was not really on that list. Sure, at times, but as a whole I always wanted more or something new. I guess that is part of growing up.

I know perfection doesn’t really exist. People, relationships, careers, children, you name it, nothing is perfect. We all have our issues and deal with them in our own ways. I can definitely say my life isn’t perfect, but I am content with how it is and look forward to the future. Rather than always wanting to move and evolve at a fast pace, I can take day by day and see what what comes my way.

I think that if you sit back and think of all the good things you have, the beauty that surrounds you, and the people who love you {as well as the ones you love}, you will realize that things aren’t so bad. Contentment doesn’t mean you want to stay where you are forever. It just means you appreciate all you have and are happy with how far you’ve come. It’s a mighty good feeling.

Inspiration Photo Friday: Contentment - © Melissa O'Connor-Arena

Inspiration Photo Friday: Changes

31 Friday May 2013

Posted by melissaoconnor in Inspiration Photo Friday

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change, earth, evolution, family, friends, grounded, journey, life, mother earth, nature, trees, world

The world we live in will always change. That goes for each of our lives as well. Expecting people to stay the same is very naive, we all grow and evolve. Hopefully, its for the better. My life has certainly gone through a lot of change, from childhood to now. I wouldn’t have it any other way.

As I look around at the people in my life, both friends and family, everyone has changes they are going through. From babies and marriage to ending relationships, moving, and coping with death, its all important to their growth as individuals. And it all happens for a reason, even if its not that great at the time. I can vouch for this for sure.

The photo below was taken recently while my husband Dan and I were on our vacation in Massachusetts. There is always something about a quiet road or path that inspires me to keep going in a positive direction. This photo also reminds me of one thing that will never change, nature. Mother Earth is always there to surround you with love and protection, sharing its beauty every chance it gets.

So when there are times that change gets a little too much, visit a park or take a peaceful walk in the woods. You can always count on nature to keep you grounded and calm. It’s the one thing that can never be taken away. So cherish it with all your heart and appreciate all it does for us. Because it doesn’t just give, it teaches all of us about the one thing we can’t escape, change. Evolving every minute, Earth does a fantastic job at showing us how to evolve with grace.

Inspiration Photo Friday: Tunnel Vision

24 Friday May 2013

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determination, nature, peace, peaceful, plants, road, trees, tunnel vision, vacation

My husband and I have been on our vacation since Tuesday and since then we have mainly relaxed, which was the point of the trip. It’s really been nice to kind of do nothing for once. The weather has been rainy and cloudy everyday so we can’t really explore the area too much but when the sun comes shining through, we will surely get out for a bit.

I told myself this trip would help rejuvenate my mind and jumpstart a new way of life. When I get home I would like to focus more on my health, so starting an exercise routine and eating a little better is a must. I also want to focus on Gray Star Design and go full force with the business. And last but not least, creating more time to spend with Dan and doing more together.

I took this photo yesterday while taking a walk with our dogs. It’s the road our cottage is on and it really is beautiful. Surrounded by trees, plants, and a peaceful stream that runs through the woods, the serene environment truly allows clear thinking. It reminded me of the path I want to take in life and how important certain things are to my future. And although you never know what will come your way, creating the life you want and working toward goals that will truly make you happy, is essential for success. And I know I will get there.

Inspiration Photo Friday: Lots of Love

17 Friday May 2013

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animals, anniversary, cottage, friendship, heart, life, love, marriage, massachusetts, nature, time, vacation, wedding

So much has been happening around here in my home, sometimes I forget to think. It’s surely been crazy with the kitchen renovation taking over our lives and both of use trying to juggle work in between. Orders have been coming in and I am preparing for the Forgotten Friends of Long Island Spring Fair tomorrow, so I have been a little crazy. But its soon time to move forward and be able to actually relax.

Monday is my first wedding anniversary and I can’t believe a year has gone by already. I can close my eyes and imagine myself back at the farm marrying my best friend, like its yesterday. Even though that day was sort of a blur itself. So much has happened since then, like my life always tends to be. It’s never dull, thats for sure! But Monday will not only begin a new year with my husband, it will launch our much needed vacation. I am so excited.

We aren’t doing anything extravagant, just renting a little cottage in Massachusetts surrounded by nature. It will truly be a relaxing and peaceful time away from life here on Long Island. Our dogs will be with us as well, as they always are, so it will be nice to share some quality time, just us four. I am especially looking forward to time with Dan to reflect on our marriage and all that life has brought us since our wedding day. Quality time with him is a must.

So for this Inspiration Photo Friday, I ask you all to look at the loves in your life and let them know you appreciate them. Whether its a partner or friend, show them they have a place in your heart. Sometimes life can pull you away and become a distraction, so create that quality time and be in the moment. Time seems to continue to fly by, whether we want it to or not, so live life to the fullest and let your soul truly shine.

Inspiration Photo Friday: Lots of Love - Photo by Lauren Elle
Photograph by Lauren Elle Photography