Farewell 2017

“Hope smiles from the threshold of the year to come.”

Alfred Tennyson

FLYING HIGH

Perhaps an odd choice for Favorites of 2017 but this little hummingbird capture was a lesson in perseverance. I wasn’t equipped to capture him properly but I was able to create something that I found interesting by playing with some post processing tools. As we bring 2017 to a close it serves as a reminder that one can always turn lemons into lemonade, which pretty much describes my year. We weathered several storms (both literal and figurative) this year, but here we are, all in one piece and looking forward to a wonderful holiday and a bright new year.

UNDER THE OAKS

“Dear world, I am excited to be alive in you and I am thankful for another year.

Charlotte Eriksson

My second capture comes from an adventure a good friend and I had at a relatively close-by location, Old Sheldon Church. It was a beautiful day with lovely light and we were both weighed down with as much photographic equipment as we could manage 😀. It reminds us that there is much to be seen close to home just as there is when we travel afar. We must always be mindful of the beauty around us, wherever we may be.

IMPRESSION OF THE GW BRIDGE

“The New Year is a painting not yet painted.”

Mehmet Murat Ildan

My choice of the impressionist-version of the GW Bridge is special to me for two reasons. First, if I am posting something from New York City it means I am with family, and most especially enjoying the company of our granddaughter, who grows more special every year. Second, it resulted from a class I took about Topaz software, which reminds us that it’s important never to stop learning and to be willing always to try new things.

ON THE MOVE

“Treat every day like it’s a new year because it is.”

TemitOpe Ibrahim

Speaking of trying new things, I thoroughly enjoyed a day shooting a local hip hop dancer surrounded by interesting wall art. The capture I’ve included here also made use of the Topaz tricks I learned earlier that month, as well as some new techniques for shooting subjects in motion. It reminds us that new challenges help us to keep growing.

IN THE SHADOWS

“There is good in every year.”

Lailah Gifty Akita

Unlike some of my other choices, the capture above presents a very moody moment in time. I shot it after an extraordinary experience watching whales cavort under the Golden Gate Bridge with very good friends. It serves as a reminder that our task is to make the most of the dark times, learning from them as we make our way to the next sunrise.

IRMA’S CLOUDS

“What the new year brings to you will depend a great deal on what you bring to the new year.”

Vern McLellan

I’m closing my post with two captures of home. Above, our beautiful beach, covered in clouds as we awaited the arrival of Hurricane Irma. Below, a capture of some of our very special birdlife nestled among the sweetgrass. They remind us that each new year may bring storms and trouble, but along with them, each will also bring beauty and peace.

EGRETS IN THE SWEETGRASS

“The New Year is not something before us, it is something hidden within us trying to find the light.”

Michael Meade

May your New Year be filled with all good things. See you in 2018.

WPC: 2017 Favorites

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Tags: 2017 Favorites, New Year, weekly photo challenge

80 thoughts on “Farewell 2017”

Diane on January 24, 2018 at 10:34 pm said:

Your posts are such a treat to enjoy .. Arriving just in time when my hunger peaks to see what you willl come with next!
Hope you never get tired of capturing images and writing such thought-provoking passages!
A huge Thank you!!

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David on January 3, 2018 at 3:27 pm said:

Snow? Ice? Winter on the shore? Stay warm.

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- Tina Schell on January 3, 2018 at 3:45 pm said:
  
  Indeed! Watch for my next post 🙂
  
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Linda on January 1, 2018 at 8:30 pm said:

Tina, what’s amazing is that whether you shoot urban or coastal, artwork or real-life, people , places or things, you create beauty. I’m so glad to be back in Blogland so I can see your posts!

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- Tina Schell on January 2, 2018 at 4:44 pm said:
  
  Many thanks Linda – you know what they say about Jacks of all Trades LOL!
  
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Nature on the Edge on December 31, 2017 at 3:55 pm said:

Your work inspires, Tina. I really enjoy the textures and layers both in the story and the visual; the ways in which you apply different techniques. Here’s wishing you a fulfilling 2018.

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- Tina Schell on December 31, 2017 at 4:03 pm said:
  
  Thanks so much Liz – and all the best to you in the New Year and beyond >
  
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JACKTWARD on December 31, 2017 at 3:04 am said:

What beautiful photos these are, you are truly gifted with such wonderful skills. I love the hummingbird especially, very creative piece. Keep up the awesome work so others can continue to enjoy it!

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- Tina Schell on December 31, 2017 at 9:15 am said:
  
  Thanks very much Jack – and Happy New Year to you. > > >
  
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Andrew Seal on December 30, 2017 at 1:37 pm said:

What a wonderful post Tina and such a great way to finish the year. As always I come away feeling inspired by your brilliant photos and wonderful quotes together with your insightful commentary. Thank you for making Travels and Trifles such a lovely place to visit in 2017 Tina and I can’t wait to see what 2018 brings. I hope you have enjoyed your time with your family in New York and especially your granddaughter. Ours was pure joy every day 🙂 Wishing you and your family a very happy and healthy New Year. With warmest good wishes as always…Andrew

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- Tina Schell on December 30, 2017 at 3:07 pm said:
  
  Thank you for the lovely note Andrew. It’s been great following your beautiful blog as well. Your talent knows no end and I love watching your beautiful family grow. Best to all of you in the New Year
  
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  - Andrew Seal on December 31, 2017 at 12:16 am said:
    
    Thanks for your good wishes Tina. How lucky we both are 🙂
norasphotos4u on December 30, 2017 at 1:34 pm said:

A beautiful selection of favorites Tina – I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a have a Happy New Year!! Thanks for all of your views and comments on my photos!!

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- Tina Schell on December 30, 2017 at 3:09 pm said:
  
  Thanks Nora, and Happy New Year to you!
  
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awesomeness1313 on December 30, 2017 at 6:23 am said:

Nice images! I made a poem about 2017-2018 on my blog, make sure to check it out!

internationalaw.wordpress.com

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prior.. on December 29, 2017 at 5:02 am said:

outstanding post. I leave with this reflective – and grateful mood.
thanks for that
and love the hip hop dancer image for originality – but it all flowed so well and esp. like the point about finding beauty around us (not always having to travel far and wide)

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- Tina Schell on December 30, 2017 at 9:41 pm said:
  
  Thanks so much Yvette, having been away for the holidays, which was great, I can only say “there’s no place like home!!” Best to you in 2018
  
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  - prior.. on December 30, 2017 at 10:48 pm said:
    
    hi – and I bet it is especially nice to get home after the cold weather up north
mdhoffmannphoto on December 28, 2017 at 2:45 pm said:

Wonderful summary and descriptions of your years favourite images! Great “New Years” quotes too. You blog is a great inspiration to many folks Tina!

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- Tina Schell on December 30, 2017 at 9:47 pm said:
  
  Thanks so much Michael. All the best to you in the New Year
  
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Lisa Gordon on December 27, 2017 at 9:34 pm said:

Tina, these are wonderful!
I especially love “In the Shadows.”
It truly is a magnificent image.
Wishing you a bright and beautiful New Year!

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- Tina Schell on December 27, 2017 at 9:37 pm said:
  
  Thanks so much Lisa. Best to you in the New Year as well.
  
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treesshrubs on December 26, 2017 at 2:56 am said:

I so love and look forward to your posts….some beautiful and deep images ….thoughtful words…. a most happy and fruitful new year to you and yours 😊Trees

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- Tina Schell on December 26, 2017 at 8:22 am said:
  
  Thank you Trees, for your beautiful comment and good wishes. All the same to you as well
  
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thirdeyemom on December 25, 2017 at 3:51 pm said:

Beautiful collection of photos Tina. Wishing you a wonderful New Year!

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- Tina Schell on December 25, 2017 at 10:58 pm said:
  
  Thanks Nicole and happy 2018 to you!
  
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pommepal on December 25, 2017 at 2:52 pm said:

A wonderful and varied collection of your photographic year. Every one an image of beauty and the quotes make your posts very special. I look forward to more in 2018

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- Tina Schell on December 25, 2017 at 10:58 pm said:
  
  Thanks Pauline-wishing you all the best in the New Year
  
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David on December 25, 2017 at 2:51 pm said:

Merry Christmas, Tina, and to your family too. Here’s to finding new places, new scenes. And, those unanticipated happenings, that they are of the pleasant variety.

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- Tina Schell on December 25, 2017 at 10:59 pm said:
  
  Thanks David, and all good things to you and yours as well!
  
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neihtn2012 on December 25, 2017 at 7:36 am said:

These photos are so beautiful! I feel more than blessed viewing them in their variety and creativity, surely at the top of photography art. Thank you Tina, and looking forward to seeing more of your posts and photos in the new year!

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- Tina Schell on December 25, 2017 at 11:00 pm said:
  
  Thanks so much Hien-here’s to a wonderful 2018!
  
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Leatrice Kaye on December 24, 2017 at 3:35 pm said:

Merry Xmas and a happy 2018 new year

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Ellen Jennings on December 24, 2017 at 8:55 am said:

I’ve enjoyed your photos this year, Tina, and look forward to seeing what 2018 will bring from the Low Country and beyond. Wishing you and yours blessings of the season.

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- Tina Schell on December 24, 2017 at 9:20 am said:
  
  many thanks Elken, and best to you in the new year
  
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Leya on December 24, 2017 at 7:17 am said:

Merry Christmas to you and yours, Tina! Opening your posts is like opening Christmas presents every time! I love that moody picture too – among all the other glorious ones.

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- Tina Schell on December 24, 2017 at 8:01 am said:
  
  Thanks Leya, what a great compliment
  
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  - Leya on December 24, 2017 at 9:41 am said:
    
    ♥
Mabel Kwong on December 24, 2017 at 4:15 am said:

Looks like you’ve been places this year, Tina. Such a wide variety of shots over this year from you, and another fun year in photography, and marching into the next year with a new toy 🙂 Also sounds like you kept positive during the stormy times. Bit of positivity will always keep us going. I got a feeling 2018 will be an unexpected one…and hoping it will be a good one. Take care and see you next year 🙂 ❤

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- Tina Schell on December 24, 2017 at 8:02 am said:
  
  Thanks Mabel and all the best to you in the New Year too
  
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Pilgrim on December 24, 2017 at 3:30 am said:

Tina, there is always good in everything even The shadow. Just have to focus and photography brings it out. Merry Christmas with love, P.

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- Tina Schell on December 24, 2017 at 8:03 am said:
  
  Photography does bring it out Perpetua, thanks. Merry Christmas to you and all the best in the new year
  
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Amy on December 24, 2017 at 1:35 am said:

Thank you so much for sharing these fine artworks and inspiring quotes!
Merry Christmas to you and yours, Tina! Happy 2018 🙂

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- Tina Schell on December 24, 2017 at 8:05 am said:
  
  Thanks Amy, my pleasure. And merry Christmas to you too!
  
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MK on December 24, 2017 at 12:46 am said:

I have enjoyed reading your thoughts on your favorite photos for this year.
Happy Holidays & Happy New Year to you.

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- Tina Schell on December 24, 2017 at 8:04 am said:
  
  Many thanks MK and best to you too!
  
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Miriam on December 23, 2017 at 10:45 pm said:

A beautiful post Tina with some wonderful messages. Wishing you all the best in 2018.

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 11:03 pm said:
  
  Many thanks Miriam
  
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april kanew on December 23, 2017 at 10:12 pm said:

so many of my favorites Tina….THANK U for a year filled with adventure , mystery & beauty …what a ride it has been….I look forward to many more posts in 2018!!! Happy new year🍾

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 10:20 pm said:
  
  Thanks for coming along for the ride April! Happy New Year to you!
  
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Vicki on December 23, 2017 at 10:10 pm said:

Some beautiful favourites in this post, Tina.

That ‘moody’ moment of the man under the bridge is a great capture too.

Hope you have a lovely Christmas with loved ones and a Healthy Happy New Year to follow.

Me, I haven’t learned anything new this year except to be thankful for a simple life and relishing those online friends that keep me amused with thoughts and images as I have been more housebound than usual in 2017. I feel so lucky to be easily entertained as I watching the various wrens, finches and sparrows drink from the bird bath near the window in front of my desk. As I watch the changing of the season, I’m reminded of the impermanence of life and how we should make the most of what we have right now, not be forever wishing for something more or something better.

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 10:19 pm said:
  
  Very well said Vicki. Hope 2018 brings you better health and all good things
  
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Olga on December 23, 2017 at 9:20 pm said:

I loved the quotes that brought a special touch to your journey in photos. Wonderful post! ❤

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 9:50 pm said:
  
  Thanks very much Olga!
  
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Lunda Wyatt on December 23, 2017 at 7:52 pm said:

Oh T…. you touch the depth of my heart with your posts… a year of ups and downs for sure… but as always you take the high road and find the best … your photos always reflect the hope that lies within. Grateful for you my friend…. your post is a real Christmas gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. Thank you.

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 9:52 pm said:
  
  A very favorite comment from a wonderful treasured friend. My sincere thanks for all of your support and heartfelt wishes for the new year
  
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Beauty Along the Road on December 23, 2017 at 6:16 pm said:

To an inspiring New Year – never stop learning!

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 6:16 pm said:
  
  Amen!
  
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Inside the Mind of Isadora on December 23, 2017 at 6:02 pm said:

In the Shadows and On the Move are my favorites all of them. I am feeling a bit guilty about the GW as I’m from NY. It’s difficult to pick one over another since your photographs are always stellar. A wonderful selection of your year 2017.
May your Christmas be Happy and your New Year 2018 be filled with more LOVE ❤️ than your heart can hold.
Isadora 😎
ps be sure to check out my year 2017 @ isadoraartandphotography.com

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 6:16 pm said:
  
  Many thanks Izzy, and all the best for you in 2018 as well. Promise to stop by shortly!
  
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  - Inside the Mind of Isadora on December 23, 2017 at 7:37 pm said:
    
    No rush, Tina … tis the time for family and friends. Blessings to you
Jane Lurie on December 23, 2017 at 5:41 pm said:

A great review of your favorite captures, Tina. A terrific diversity of techniques and subjects. Hope you have a wonderful holiday! 🎄

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 5:49 pm said:
  
  Thanks so much Jane. And the best of holidays to you too
  
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Patti Ross on December 23, 2017 at 4:40 pm said:

Happy New Year! I especially love the two lessons you mention that help make any new adventure or year worthwhile: embrace change and learning and stay mindful to all around you. As usual, great photos and quotes. I always enjoy your posts!

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 5:23 pm said:
  
  Thanks Patti! Somehow you managed to turn my long dissertation into a short, succinct and to the point message 😊😊 well done! Happy New Year to you too
  
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lensandpensbysally on December 23, 2017 at 12:35 pm said:

Tina, your choice of a hummingbird blended with the music score are each in their own way optimistic examples of creativity and layers of meaning for nature and human nature. Wishing HOPE for all in the new year where dark was the theme of 2017.

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 5:18 pm said:
  
  There is always hope Sally. Here’s to a bright 2018
  
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loisajay on December 23, 2017 at 11:53 am said:

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you, Tina. Wishing you a great 2018.

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 3:38 pm said:
  
  Thank you Lois, and all the best to you too
  
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Terri Webster Schrandt on December 23, 2017 at 11:06 am said:

I’ve been so happy to become acquainted with your blog and your inspirational images, Tina. These favorites are indicative of your talent and passion for photography and I always enjoy the thought-provoking quotes you add to each post. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you!

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 3:41 pm said:
  
  Such a lovely compliment Terry, thanks so much Merry Christmas and best to you in the New Year
  
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Judy @ NewEnglandGardenAndThread on December 23, 2017 at 11:06 am said:

Wonderful photos and wishes. A new year always does feel like you’re wiping the slate clean and you can try again. May 2018 be a healthy and happy one for you and yours. 🙂

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 3:43 pm said:
  
  Thank you Judy. All the best to you in 2018 too
  
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robert20359 on December 23, 2017 at 10:53 am said:

hi tina, great and interesting selection of your photos from the past year 2017. I think they would have chosen me too. grettings robert

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 10:57 am said:
  
  Thanks Robert! Happy holidays to you
  
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Heyjude on December 23, 2017 at 10:35 am said:

A post full of treasures Tina. You never fail to delight me with the quotes and your photography. I look forward to another year of sharing in your images and the inspiration they give me. Happy 2018 🙂

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 10:43 am said:
  
  You’ve made my day for sure Jude. Here’s to an inspirational 2018 for us all.
  
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Sue on December 23, 2017 at 10:17 am said:

Some great images here, Tina….I am impressed by the diversity ….. the hummingbird composite is very arty, the hip hop very colourful and fun, and the Shadows a little Cartier Bresson! I feel I have been a little mundane this year, and haven’t learnt as many new things this year as I had intended….
Wishing you and yours a very happy Christmas, and all the best for 2018

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- Tina Schell on December 23, 2017 at 10:43 am said:
  
  Thanks so much Sue. For sure you are judging yourself too harshly! All the best to you in 2018!
  
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  - Sue on December 23, 2017 at 11:26 am said:
    
    Many thanks, Tina!