Breathing Space: August 2009
Photograph by Julie Neal
St. Lucia
This was taken from a secluded hotel and restaurant in the hills of St. Lucia. For me, this photo is labeled "Clarity." This trip brought many things in my life into clear view.
Photograph by Brandy Grote
Las Vegas, Nevada
As this dolphin's resting eyes prove, everyone needs a nap!
Photograph by LaTosha Francisco
Yosemite National Park, California
Nature at its best reflects the true beauty of this universe. This photo was taken through a window-like opening that reflects its natural state for what it is. I felt so at peace when I had an opportunity to sit in this window-like opening and just reflect. When I look at this photo, I often think of a favorite quote of mine often said by one of my spiritual teachers, Dr. Wayne W. Dyer: "Let go and let God."
Photograph by Carole Pilgrim
Nile River, Egypt
I love sunsets and reflections. I took this photo while sailing on the Nile River in 2007. This is my favorite picture from the entire trip. I feel calm and at peace with the world when I look at it. Even though I'm far away from rural Georgia, I'm reminded of the sunsets at home and I don't feel alone.
Photograph by Zahira Bisseriani
Algiers, Algeria
Algeria is the largest country on the Mediterranean Sea, the second largest on the African continent and the eleventh-largest country in the world in terms of land area. We have the most contradictory landscapes, from the relatively fertile, mountainous areas of the north to the expansive Sahara to the south. Algeria's geography is wonderfully diverse—a real treat for the eyes.
Photograph by Melissa Fontenette-Mitchell
Round Rock, Texas
The sunflower reminds me of the sun, which brings us joy and happiness.
Photograph by Shirley Caldwell
Nova Scotia, Canada
These daisies were just growing at the side of the road. Sometimes the best things in life are free!
Photograph by Marie McGing
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
The photo was taken at the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club in Cape Cod. I attended a weekend retreat with Joan Anderson, author of A Walk on the Beach. What a delightful time…and the natural beauty of the surroundings made it even more meaningful.
Photograph by Matti Lagerbom
Kanaka Creek, Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada
This is the best place for meditation and a wonderful place to walk to refresh your thoughts.
Photograph by Stacy Silva
Harleysville, Pennsylvania
I captured this image in my front yard. It is one of my favorites because of the deep, vibrant colors and the way in which the depth of focus leads you into the center of the daisy.
Photograph by Amy Carter
Sandpoint, Idaho
Sandpoint, Idaho, has the best sunsets. They make you want to inhale deeply and just breathe, especially when combined with lakes and mountains!
Photograph by Brittany Murphy
Death Valley, California
It is so peacefully quiet and remarkably beautiful!
Photograph by Brittany Meyers
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia
I love the serenity that I can feel via memory when I look at this picture.
Photograph by Denise Mack
Two Island Lake, Gunflint Trail, Minnesota
I've always loved nature and taking photos, and I've turned my passion for photography into a part-time career (I'm also a full-time mom). This was taken in 1997 using 35mm film. While camping, I was practicing with my high school graduation gift, given to me by my parents. It offered an array of artistic possibilities with creative modes not typically found on point-and-shoot cams. Never altered in any way, the photo has won the hearts of all who know my work.
Photograph by Liz Guardiola
Grand Canyon, Arizona
The Grand Canyon sometimes seems like God's country.
Photograph by Janet Burgart
Destin, Florida
I would love to see the beach from his point of view.
Photograph by Judy Winter
DeWitt, Michigan
This is one of the many shots I have taken of the memorial garden near the grave site of my much-loved son, who passed away in 2003 at age 12. During my regular sacred visits to the cemetery, the stunning, seasonal floral beauty surrounding me contributes much to this bereaved mother's ongoing healing. Caught up in nature's magic, I can finally breathe out, at peace with the reality of my life amid great loss.
Photograph by David Sanders
Tulsa, Oklahoma
My husband, David, is a wonderful photographer! This is his picture of a white flower in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Photograph by Valerie Dominguez
Glendale, Arizona
I set out to plant flowers in my front yard when I realized that a couple of mating bugs were living in my soon-to-be gardening area. I decided to grab my camera and watch to see what they would do. Both paused and turned their heads to look at me. Then, after a couple of seconds, they realized I was not a threat and the male began marching away with his partner still attached.
Photograph by John Merlino
Circleville, Utah
We had just come down the mountain from a long motocross ride and stopped for lunch. I sat against a tree trunk and, after finishing my PowerBar and water, stretched with open arms and reared my head back eyes closed. When I opened my eyes, I was in heaven.
Published 02/12/2010