Ring out the old, ring in the new. Ring out the false, ring in the true.
-From Ding Dong, Ding Dong by George Harrison courtesy of Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Yes, there is magic in the air. And hope. And possibility. Gone is the era of trying to fit into a box. 2013 is the year to celebrate our differences and revel in them. Like snowflakes, no two of us are alike. In our individuality resides the gifts we were born to express.
In grade school each one of my children put a lot of thought into what they wanted to be when they grew up. I urged them to figure out what they loved to do and simply point themselves in that direction. No need to have a concrete plan because their life’s work may not have even been invented yet. That has certainly proved true in my life. Always a visual artist, I had no idea my art would expand to the written word posted on a blog one day. Come to think of it, as a kid, the whole concept of a blogs and computers would have seemed like science fiction to me. Exploring what I loved to do led me through doors I could have never imagined.
In the freshness of the new year, blanketed by hope, enjoy the wonder of your dreams. They arise from the unique beauty that lies within. Embrace your quirks and foibles too. They just may be the oomph needed to bring those dreams to fruition.
My great-niece Nina dressed as the Sugar Plum Fairy.
All text and images © Sue Shanahan. All rights reserved.
Commonplace Grace 
Thank you for such beautiful, pictures and words.
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Thanks, Mary. We all can use a little magic. Happy new year!
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Real magical images, great! Wish you a 2013 full of joy, peace and creativity!
robert
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Thanks and wishing you the same. Happy new year!
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Dear Sue, Each time a new post comes along, it feels like a gift. Thank you so very much! Blessings for the new year, Lois
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What a nice thing to say. All any artist hopes for is that the art they share is recieved as a gift. Thank you.
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Love it!
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Thank you.
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Wow! how wonderfully written. The lovely images took my mind to beauty, peace and inspiration!!! Loved it!! Well done!!
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Love these pictures
Check out my photos on my wall, you may want to use some of my grandkids.
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Thanks, Beth. I’m on it.
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Your talents are amazing!
Your art work and words are inspiring!
Thank for sharing your wonderful gifts.
What a treasure!
Pam
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As always, thanks for your support. What would the world be like if we didn’t share our gifts?
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