Seems like every year about this time Washington finally manages to string together enough sunny days to make me happy for more than half the day and I start to forget about moving away and spend a little time thinking about where my life has taken me in the last year.

This year has brought me lots of little joyful moments. As I get older (almost 36 now), I try to take the time to really enjoy these little moments. I try to live in the moment and enjoy every smile I get, every song I hear and every encounter that comes my way. Live life to the fullest. Why not, right? As a freelance photographer, these moments are often captured, so reflecting on them is always a joy.

Last month I went to the movies and a friend said he likes movies, but only if they finish with a happy ending. For me, I don't always need the happy ending to every moment. I like a story that has twists and turns, ups and downs, good and bad. That's life. That's how life is supposed to work out. In the end, if your story finishes with a happy ending, then you've been blessed. And if not, as long as you enjoy each little joyful moment to the fullest, you've been equally blessed.

As the people in my life experience both good and bad moments, I try to approach them with an open mind and open heart. I try to listen and respond as a good friend should, but I realize I'm not always as successful at this as I should be. I guess each year holds a new challenge. Whether you seek them out, or they just come your way, let's live these challenges to the fullest. I think I might just go search one out. I need a few more joyful moments...:)