Happy New Year, 2018!

New Year's Day Sunrise 2017

Happy New Year!

Since the year 2000 I have taken a photo of the sunrise welcoming the new year. 

This year was no different.

Some years were more difficult than others.

It all depended on how late I went to sleep on the Eve.

Some years, on Long Island or in Pennsylvania, it was extremely cold, so a sunrise image was not exactly what I wanted to do- but, I did it anyway.

I have friends who wait for the photo to be posted. Family will ask, "Are you setting the alarm?" 

I can't let them down, but most of all, I can't let myself down. 

Living in Florida makes it a little easier. No freezing temperatures to endure. Just throw on some shorts and sandals, a light shirt, and maybe a light jacket and I'm out the door. 

I must admit, sunrise in January is not really happening very early for me, but I must be there and ready long before the sun actually rises. 

The light just before sunrise can be even more important, and spectacular!

So this year I woke up at 5AM with just four hours of sleep, had only one cup of coffee, grabbed my camera gear and ventured out to the park near a body of water. 

Watching the sun rise, in solitude, with birds flying over the water, song birds chirping, watching the fish jump and herons hunting for their breakfast, is the real reason I do this.

It's the promise of a new day, new year, and I feel blessed!

How spiritually wonderful it feels to be part of nature and be able to witness the dawning of a another year. 

Mission accomplished! 

Sunrise, January 1st, 2015

Sunrise on a new year...

I've been taking a new year's sunrise photo since the year 2000.

At that time, we thought the world was in danger. 

Many events have taken place since then, both good and bad.

And each year we begin with the hope and promise that everything will be better.

Wishing you all the good things in life: health, happiness, peace and love!

Sunrise 2009

sunrise 2009, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

January 1st, 2009 at sunrise

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I awoke to a new year, 2009. The temperature outside was 10°F and it was very windy. 

There was ice and snow on the roadways.

My usual New Years Day trip to the beach was put on hold.

Plan B: taking sunrise shots near my house! It really was beautiful!

~~~

I was just a little disappointed but decided that the beach would have had too much sand and ocean-spray blowing over us....bad for the camera and me! I could stand the cold but the wind makes it too uncomfortable. My husband decided to stay in bed.

It turned out to be a beautiful morning. I couldn't walk far, nor did I want to, but just around the neighborhood was magical. 

The pond and canal were beginning to freeze up but the birds were busy at the bird feeders 

and in the holly trees.

 I was the only one out there and loved it!

Enjoy your day and remember that we got to see a new year. 

That's amazing in itself and should be celebrated!

~~~

Happy New Year, 2009!

Happy New Year, originally uploaded by Alida's Photos.

Happy New Year to all my friends and family and my

 Long Island Woman visitors!

May your year be filled with good health and happiness!

~~~