My Oregon adventure was amazing beyond words. God knows I've been posting enough of the images on Flickr to prove it. I could try to articulate how much it meant to spend quality time with 11 soul-sisters but I think when the planets align like that, the words only fall flat and could never really conjure up the magic that swirled about in the salty air, beneath the Mystical Manzanita Moon.

Among countless other gifts, I came home with an entire collection of photographs of myself which is a rarity for sure. That the shots so beautifully and insightfully tell the story of who I am leaves me feeling deeply seen and makes me weepy with gratitude.

I am a soul-searcher at heart so receiving photographs that have captured a part of my soul feels incredible. Through the lenses of women I hold dear, I am able to see myself as I am and as I strive to be;

open,

alive,

playful,

happy,

content,

and full of love.

Sometimes these kinds of shots are the Best Shots there are.

Share your Best Shots today, whomever and whatever they may have captured.

We had such a nice evening together and took so many fun photos I just had to showcase little miss sunshine in her glory; sun flair and all.

What's been bright and beautful in your world this week

Oh, and if anyone would like to sport this little button on their blog...

email me at tracey at shuttersisters dot com and I will send you the code. Thanks for asking!

As I was waiting at the street corner for these friends to cross and meet me for brunch, this heart was laying on the sidewalk at my feet.

Sweet serendipity.

*sigh*

There's nothing better than the love shared between our sister friends.

We had to say our good-byes yesterday to part of our family.

18 years ago a curious kitten was born in a closet. A few months later I met her (and the compassionate man that assisted her mother giving birth to she and her liter mates amidst piles of his clothing). I fell in love with the man, and his cats. He and I got married. We had two children. And we have never known one another without the cat family in our lives. The mama left us first. And then a sister. And yesterday, the last of our cats had to let go too. 18 years later and the end of such a rich chapter of our lives. The hole she has left feels cavernous. There will always be the open space in our hearts that can never be filled by any other and we will lovingly hold her memory there for always.

Everything I needed to know I learned at BlogHer

1. Internet friends ARE real friends (despite what any non-blogger might say).
2. Getting away for the weekend without the kids is good for the soul.

3. A big bathtub is worth the cost of a hotel room.
4. I get very cranky when beer is not readily available at events.
5. Paper bags can make a fashion statement.
6. San Francisco looks magical at night.
7. Cold weather in July is refreshing.
8. Walking can be fun.

9. Making new friends is awesome.
10. Time with soul sisters is worth the cost of admission.