Since my very first early morning visit to the ocean, I have always loved sunrises. So without any planning on January 1, 2005, and with a four month old baby, we drove to the nearby beach and were blessed with a new day.
We sent that first unedited photo and our new year's greetings to a very long list of friends, and did not stop for twenty years when we returned to that original beach twenty years later. Here are those photos and new year wishes in one place. We hope you enjoy.
~ May your sunrises always be special and may each day be a blessing for you and those you love. ❤️
From: CJ Wilson, Global Alliance Ltd.
Subject: HAPPY NEW YEARS GREETINGS
Date: Monday, January 2, 2005
Photo by Misono Wilson - 2005 First Sunrise ©
We hope the year ahead brings you joy and peace --- and again sincerely thank you for the opportunity to know each other.
It's been an exciting year of change with the birth of Faith Miyabi Wilson (pictured on January 1st). And we hope this note finds you well and healthy in times that have seen great anguish around the world.
In investment, M&A and financing we continue with Global Alliance to make a difference for our clients in Japan, China and US. And on a personal front, Misono and I relearn daily how precious life (and sleep) is, and the importance of the understanding and love of others.
As always, I look forward to staying in touch and to meeting again very soon in Tokyo, New York, Deerfield Beach or wherever you might be.
Cheers to a new dawn for all ---
Faithfully,
Global Alliance K.K.
Marunouchi Bldg. 7/F
2-4-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku
Tokyo 100-6307
813 5411 0907
Global Alliance Ltd.
45 Rockefeller Center 20/F
New York, New York 10111
1 212 380 1674
Subject: HAPPY NEW YEAR 2006 ~ Lessons from a youngster (1 yr 4 months) at Tokyo Tower this morning
Date/Time: January 1, 2006 8:25 AM
Dear .....
If you don't see fancy writing and photos below, please open the attachment.
The Wilson Family is sending you their very best wishes and sincere thanks for the year ahead. May it be healthy, happy and helpful (to make a difference).
Your kind help and friendship is always greatly appreciated.
Hoping to see you again soon.
Sincerely,
CJ & Misono & Faith Miyabi
1st Sunrise in Tokyo – Tokyo Tower Observation Deck (January 1, 2006 ~ up very early)
Hi! This is Faith talking. I am with my Dad.
We are up to see the sunrise from Tokyo Tower. I've taught him a lot of things recently.
For starters, first, it doesn't hurt to get up early. It's good for you (okay, he taught me that).
Second -- The sun, just like tomorrow, always comes.
We can't always see it clearly. But it comes. Just relax, you'll find it --- and all will be okay.
Third, don't stop reaching.
There's always more to see and do. Just follow my example. Nothing is impossible.
Forth, make new friends wherever you are.
My old friends were once new friends. And I love them.
They are the best ever!
Fifth, appreciate traditions.
They are all around. And I learn most from what (and who) came before me.
Sixth, take risks! It's fun.
Jump up and down. Fall down. Get up. Laugh. Laugh loud. I mean really really loud. It's usually okay...maybe even here?
Seventh, Buddha was right -- just smile.
It makes people happy. Wave too. It's easy.
Big smiles are great. Try it. I promise it will make you happy too.
Eighth, it's a big world out there.
I can't do everything. But I can do something good each day. And I can grow a little taller & be a little better this way.
And ninth, give.
Love means giving - not taking. And sharing is love too. If someone is hurting, share. Don't wait for them to ask. I just do it.
We hope you like Faith's lessons. She has lots to say -- we just don't know the language yet.
If you like giving, we ask you to see www.CharityNavigator.org to find even more ways to help if you feel you can. We hope so. Faith's favorite (seriously) is the Carter Center (www.CarterCenter.org) ranked top 10 out of 5000 US registered charities and the one we think is doing the most for people in the greatest need. Ask us if you want to know more or why.
If you feel like reading a great book, we'll point you to IHaveBeenBlessed.com. Written about my Grandfather who I admire the most. He's 92 and as the subtitle says, "Hard work and Happiness" is truly encouraging. Order directly or email us if you wish.
The year has been exciting, but as we know that includes good news and bad sometimes. We are looking forward to staying in touch with you while in Florida or Tokyo as the case may be. We are in both places more and more, and in between -- so let us know if you like the lessons and let's meet again soon!
With love, peace and joy,
Faith, Misono and CJ
Tokyo, Japan
January 1, 2006
Subject: HAPPY NEW YEARS! 2007 Photos included with text below.
Date/Time: Sunday, Jan 1, 2007 11:44 PM
Dear Friends --
The WILSON family is sending you heartfelt wishes for peace and joy for you and others in your life and everywhere.
We do hope to share a little of both, so please forgive us for sharing what Faith Miyabi (now 2 1/3 yrs) has taught me, her graying father, these past twelve months -- along with our traditional January 1st “Hinode” (Sunrise) photos below.
Hope you enjoy!
January 1, 2007 --- Sunrise at Deerfield Beach
1. Each day passes quickly so don't wait -- Start!
2. Music is good for the soul.
3. Going places is good too.
4. Forgiving is important. The "ow-ies" can heal.
5. But sometimes you have to cry to be heard.
6. And sleeping is good for you.
7. So is eating right. Hmm.
8. Language is tricky -- "poopy in the potty" does not explain how to get it in there. Substitute picture, sorry --- Looking for potty outside?
9. Saying thank you is actually easy and productive!
10. We were all young once. Remember? So join us!
11. Hugging is priceless. Feels great. Do it often. You won't regret it!!!
And it's a chance to be funny too!
May the year ahead find you and yours more happy, healthy and helpful in ways you wish to be.
That is our wish! Cheers to 2007! And cheers to our friendship.
Thank you!
January 1, 2007 --- Sunrise at Deerfield Beach
Sincerely,
CJ, Misono & Faith
The Wilson Family
Florida 954 421 1181
Tokyo 813 5411 0907
Subject: Our Family New Year Greetings, Five Lessons (of a Three Year Old) and Good Wishes!
Date/Time: Tuesday, January 1, 2008 7:27 PM
DEAR FRIENDS, AND ACQUAINTANCES;
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
ANNUALLY, WE SEND OUR BEST TO ALL WE MEET AND KNOW WITH A FEW PICTURES OF FAITH AND WHAT SHE HAS, OOPS I MEAN WHAT WE HAVE LEARNED, FROM HER.
FAITH IS NOW THREE AND ONCE AGAIN AT A DIFFERENT BEACH (HILLSBORO BEACH IN SOUTH FLORIDA) THIS NEW YEAR MORNING AT DAWN TO RECORD A NEW DAY AND A NEW YEAR!
THE LESSONS OF THE YEAR HAVE BEEN DISTILLED A BIT SINCE FAITH IS NOW OLDER AND WISER.
LESSON #1 ---- IT’S ALWAYS A NEW DAY! SEIZE IT!
LESSON #2 ---- LIFE IS ABOUT BALANCE. DO IT WELL, AND YOU’LL BE HAPPY (EVEN RESPECTED)
LESSON #3 ---- BIG ADVENTURES START IN LITTLE PONDS, AND WITH A LITTLE HELP.
LESSON #4 ---- GETTING DRESSED UP IS NOT BAD IF IT INCLUDES A LITTLE CULTURE.
LESSON #5 ---- JUMP IN. SUCCESS OFTEN COMES QUICKER WHEN WE DO!
WITH THAT, WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED FRIENDSHIP, OR THE CHANCE TO HAVE MET YOU THIS YEAR.
WE HOPE THE YEAR AHEAD IS FULL OF PEACE, LOVE AND PROGRESS FOR ALL. AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING AGAIN SOON.
SINCERELY,
CJ
Subject: Faith's Annual New Year Greeting from CJ Wilson
Date/Time: Sunday, January 04, 2009 6:49 PM
Dear Friends,
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009!
I hope you have smiled at Faith's annual picture lessons as much as we appreciate your friendship, or the chance to have met you.
This year, Faith has summed it all up so well. So now I have heard all I need or could possibly ask for;
"Happy New Year, I love you forever and ever"
We sincerely wish everyone this blessing, whether giving or getting, and thank you for another year together.
Peace & Love,
CJ & Misono Wilson
Subject: Faith's Annual New Year Greeting from CJ Wilson
Date/Time: Sunday, January 3, 2010 10:54 PM
DEAR FRIENDS,
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010!
As we do each year, Faith and I ventured out for an early morning greeting of January first sunrise.
This new year, Faith's theme with surprising confidence is that she can do anything she wants. And my reply is always "Yes you can!" I must follow this with "But please do what you should do first".
The message a bit long, but I hope you agree. So we all might feel and do the same ~ with unabashed confidence. Just imagine.
As always, we appreciate your friendship, or the chance to have met you.
From our family to yours ~
Peace & Love,
CJ Wilson & Misono Wilson
Subject: Happy New Year 2011!!
Date/Time: Sunday, January 02, 2011 2:46 PM
Dear Friend,
Annually, Faith and I venture out to catch the first sunrise of the New Year.
We hope this scene and each new day gives you strength and hope. This year more than ever we pray for health and happiness for all. And as always I appreciate your friendship even more.
With good wishes,
CJ, Misono & Faith Wilson
Subject: Happy New Year ...2012!
Date/Time: Sunday, January 02, 2012 2:46 PM
Yesterday as we do each year, Faith (7yrs old) and I ventured forth to catch the first sunrise of the new year. Our sunrise photo is attached and is unretouched except for the text.
On the way to the beach, the conversation below occurred and is quoted verbatim;
> Daddy: What did you like most about 2011?
> Faith: Everything.
> Daddy: What do you want to do most in 2012?
> Faith: Daddy. I tell you this every year. Even if I don't have fun, I will still love you.
Here's to having fun in the new year -- and sharing our love even when we don't.
Cheers!
CJ
Subject: HAPPY NEW YEAR 2013 -- Friends' Photos!!
Date/Time: Sunday, January 02, 2011 2:46 PM
Happy New Year 2013 -- Sunrise in Manhattan with Faith
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2013
Dear Friends,
Faith is now eight, and as always we ventured out to capture the first sunrise of the year on January 1st. The picture above was taken from Liberty State Park, NJ. The nearly completed Freedom Tower is on the left. The sun is beginning its accent over lower Manhattan on the right. Storm Sandy limited our access to Statue of Liberty, but we think the results motivational. As always, the color and composition of the photo is unaltered in anyway.
We hope this year brings you more love, compassion and peace to share with all you meet. For us, your friendship or the chance to have met is important, and we celebrate those new beginnings.
Cheers to you and all you do!
CJ
CJ Wilson
Subject: HAPPY NEW YEAR 2014! ~ Sunrise at Jupiter Beach
Date/Time: Wednesday, January 1, 2014 9:12 PM
Dear ....
For 10 years in a row since Faith's birth, we have captured the first sunrise each year somewhere fun. This year was tougher for two reasons; the sun never peaked through after hours of waiting, and a big wave took the fun away (see before and after pics below).
The best news is I am still humbled by my daughter and by nature proving we are not masters of all we see, though reminded love can be shared if we just get the timing right.
We thank you for our friendship or the chance to have met recently. We hope this year brings you sunshine and rain, and some big waves to surf, cry and laugh about.
Cheers to you and yours! I look forward to meeting again very soon.
CJ
PS: If wondering, Faith last month donated 18" of hair to ChildrenWithHairLoss.Us for free wigs for children.
Subject: HAPPY NEW YEAR ~ January 1, 2015
Date/Time: Thursday, January 1, 2015 5:23PM
~ Sunrise Photo 2015! With Love & Thanks ~
Annual New Years Good Wishes
Photo Above Taken January 1 (this morning) on South Beach, Miami
Faith is now 10 and this is our eleventh January 1st Sunrise together. So to celebrate the decade we ventured to wild and raucous South Beach. The picture is un-retouched and unstaged (I couldn't have staged this shot if I tried!). A few dancers, bathers and revelers were still there and going strong.
We hope that is the case with all you do, and the love you share daily. As the sun rose, Faith's New Year wishes were "To be the same, but different somehow. I want to be different. And to have fun and no war in the world!". And I agree.
It has been a pleasure meeting and knowing you, and we do hope to see you again soon. If you like receiving these messages or have an update, please let us know. As always, we hope the year is full of success, happiness and good health, but most of all love.
All good wishes,
CJ (& Faith too)
Subject: Happy New Year - 2016 Sunrise Photos
Date/Time: Friday, January 1, 2016 8:04 AM
Dear Friend,
Happy New Year 2016
In twelve years of catching the first sunrise of the new year, only once before have we not seen the sun peak over the horizon.
So here is a picture of today's new dawn with Lady Liberty looking to the East in all her glory, and one from December 31st (yes, we visited the location the day before too) which we hope inspires and motivates you to seek what sets you free the most and makes the world a better place.
Faith, reluctantly (yes, she's at that age) wrote for me ..."I think freedom is the right to do what you want, when you want to. How do you get it? I don't know."
This followed, "There isn't much advice to being happy. It's not like how to eat an orange without dripping the juice everywhere. You have to be yourself to be happy...You find the good things in your life that make you happy. The real happy comes from inside of you. It is your job to find your happy." Wisdom from an eleven year old.
I'll add that freedom is earned, fought for and paid for, usually by others. And happiness is the infinite blessings that we make from that freedom. Both sought and cherished. And best shared.
Cheers to you, your freedom and happiness, and a great 2016!
CJ & Faith
Subject: Happy New Year 2017 - First Sunrise Photo
Date/Time: Sunday, January 1, 2017 11:46AM
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2017 ~ First Sunrise Montauk NY
As always, Faith and I journeyed to see the first sunrise of the new year, and we wish to share it with all our friends new to old.
Montauk Island's Light House was commissioned by George Washington and lies east of the Hamptons. It's popular for visitors from NYC who believe a wish on the first sunrise will be granted.
Since we continue to commute between Florida and NYC, and after a wonderful late night New Year party with little sleep, we braved the winds with Pinky in tow. This is 13 years in a row to celebrate this way.
And this year, I asked Faith what her advice would be for everyone -- especially our next President -- to do better. She didn't hesitate. "You gotta get out and see the world if you want to know what's going on. That way you'll know the truth. So then you can tell the truth." And, very important, you can "Stand up for the truth." Wise advice?
The above picture is the last sunrise of 2016. Taken as we scouted locations.
I asked Faith if 2017 would be a good year. Her reply, "There's always Christmas."
So here's to coming together so 2017 is better than some think possible. So everyone can live better and be better ~ In truth I know we can.
Cheers!
CJ & Faith
Subject: 2018 New Year's Sunrise ~ Coney Island!
Date/Time: Monday, January 1, 2018 3:02 PM
Dear....
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2018 ~ First Sunrise Coney Island NY
Without fail, and despite the weather (second coldest New Years on record ~ 9F/-13C, windchill of -8F/-22C), Faith and I greeted the newest sunrise with optimism. We're not in FL of course, but NYC.
Sunrise ~ 2018 January 1st ~ Coney Island, NY (photo 100% unedited)
We traveled only 45 minutes to the famous Coney Island with its 3 miles of beaches (now flaked with snow), Nathan Hot Dogs and the Cyclone wooden roller coaster. Though 90 years old, it is also famous for the even older Polar Bear Club (114 years). We chose to pass this time.
2018 Coney Island Beach, US National Park ~ New York City
The amusement park setting is not a political statement, but based on some advice I gave Faith to "have more fun"! So her sage advice this chilly morning was "Don't waste time, life doesn't last forever...".
Faith is now 13 y.o. Ouch! She explained we all should use the time we have wisely, whether for fun or otherwise. And we should not let it slip away.
Coney Island Boardwalk, Wonder Wheel, and the Cyclone Roller Coaster made of wood.
As we seek to make the world and our home a better place, to act responsibly, and with kindness and respect, I hope we won't waste time but make a difference. And, have fun too!
Cheers for a great year for everyone.
CJ & Faith
PS: Next year will be our 15th Sunrise email (taken annually since Faith was 4 months old). Please reply if you would like to receive next year’s message.
Subject: 2019 New Year's Sunrise ~ Brooklyn & Manhattan Bridges
Date/Time: Tuesday, January 1, 2019 10:07AM
HAPPY 2019 NEW YEAR
First Sunrise ~ Bigger Bridges
Wet Sunrise ~ 2019 January 1st ~ South Street Seaport, NY (photo unedited)
After 15 years, we stayed close to home and caught pictures of our famous bridges at sunrise. With rains through the night drenching Times Square revelers, the sunrise was elusive over burgeoning Brooklyn and the majestic Brooklyn Bridge (built 1883).
Sunrise ~ 2019 January 1st ~ Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges (photo unedited)
At 14 years of age, Faith pontificates less but is still a knowledge sponge and source of reflection. When asked about the importance of bridges, mused "We need connections ... bridges to get us where we are going." And, "If we want to reach a good destination...it is our responsibility to do what we gotta do."
1898 & 1908 Ships ~ 2019 January 1st ~ South Street Seaport, NY (photo 100% unedited)
Not sure if feeling connected and more responsible is revolutionary, but with a new year dawning, am hopeful it encourages us all to reach out, forge lasting links and pathways, and do what we gotta do to make the world a better place for all, not just some.
Hat's off to everyone for a happy and even better New Year!
CJ & Faith
2019 January 1st ~ Brooklyn Bridge Walkway (photo 100% unedited)
PS: This is our 15th Sunrise email taken annually since Faith was 4 months old. Faith is not sure we will continue but you can let us know, and will try.
Wishing everyone's special memories last forever!
Subject: ⛅ 🌞 2020 New Year's Sunrise ~ Asbury Park, NJ (Atlantic Ocean)
Date/Time: Wednesday, January 1, 2020 12:52 PM
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2020
~ First Sunrise ~
With More (Inclusive) Fun
Beautiful Sunrise ~ 2020 January 1st ~ Asbury Park, NJ (photo unedited)
This is our 16th annual New Years Sunrise (taken since Faith was four months old). The response from old and new friends to keep going is often connected with the places we choose, and the magic in the positive thoughts a sunrise can bring. Here's this year's first sunrise from historic and resurgent Asbury Park.
Sunrise ~ 2020 January 1st ~ Asbury Park, NJ (photo unedited)
Holiday responsibilities waylaid our plans to 'rock in the new year at the humongous Stony Pony made famous by Bruce Springsteen and other great bands. Instead we headed for the Boardwalk and iconic views of this resurrected and once again growing town.
And if Asbury can come together to bring back the glory days in standing tall, being inclusive and united once again, I think we can too.
Faith & CJ ~ 2020 January 1st ~ Asbury Park, NJ (photo 100% unedited)
Faith is a sophomore now at Stuyvesant H.S. in NYC and more independent than ever (in every way). Hard to accept the next two years speeding by but it's happening. Any advice on what happens next -- or should, am all ears.
When I asked Faith her views on people growing old, her first reply was "Good luck, you'll need it". That was more thoughtfully followed by "We don't know what part of our life will be the best. It's up to you to decide that."
Your friendship is important. So our wish for everyone is to chose that the very best is still ahead!!
Let the year begin.
CJ & Faith too
PS: If you prefer to skip these missives each year, no worries. We need to stop sending some day (darn). Please wish everyone the joy and good thoughts of this day every day of the year! Cheers.
Subject: 2021 Annual New Year's Sunrise ~ Poconos Mountains (Pennsylvania)
Date/Time: Friday, January 1, 2021 11:23AM
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2021
~ Our First Sunrise ~
First Sunrise ~ 2021 January 1st ~ Big Poconos State Park, PA (unedited)
This is our 17th Annual New Years Sunrise photo (taken since Faith was four months old). Each year we visit somewhere we think interesting to herald in the new year together. This year was a little more challenging.
After a long drive, with safety measures galore for skiing / snowboarding, we woke up extra early today to hike far into the closed Big Poconos State Park to one of the highest points in the state.
We hiked in the dark. The temperature was -6 Celsius before windchill. The results are above and below. We used an iPhone and Samsung phone. Shots are not edited in any way.
Panorama Sunrise ~ 2021 January 1st ~ Big Poconos State Park, PA (unedited)
The past year may well be the worst ever for humankind. The loss of lives and livelihood, and the harm to democracy, ourselves and our world is more than stark. Faith similarly put it bluntly, after many falls skiing, "I hurt all over."
Faith ~ 2021 January 1st ~ Big Poconos State Park (unedited)
With so much ripe for change, can we seize the opportunity and address the worst problems facing us finally? It's a long list but the alternative is worse. So what does Faith say …
"Every problem is an opportunity"
Wise words from a 16-year old, who says "It's like a bowl of cereal. If you leave it there, you know what happens."
So "it's up to you. What are you going to do?"
2021 January 1st ~ Poconos Mountains (unedited)
The revolutionary advancement in vaccine development may save us all one day. With such victories, making it this far with gratitude to all in harm's way, and with more energy than ever and with hope to spare, I am optimistic for a better year addressing healthcare, climate change, war, hunger, mental well-being, diversity, acceptance, education, and more. Ready?
Once again, let me say your friendship and past partnership gives me hope, and sustains us in tough times. I am grateful, so thank you.
Let the year begin.
Happy New Year!!!
2021 January 1st Sunrise ~ Faith and CJ (unedited)
PS: If you haven't replied before and want to stay on this list, please let us know.
Subject: New Year Sunrise (Omg. Rain, Fog, No Sun!) Photo 2022 Fire Island
Date/Time: Saturday, January 1, 2022 11:33 AM
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2022
~ First Day Break ~ Rain, Fog, No Sunrise Yet ~
First Sunrise (that wasn't) ~ 2022 January 1st ~ Fire Island, National Park (photo unedited)
We started this journey taking photos of the first sunrise each year when Faith was just 17 weeks old. Faith is 17 years old now, and this is our 18th January 1st together. What a trip it has been. I couldn't be more lucky.
As always, all photos are uncropped and unedited in any way. What you see is what we saw (except the video at the end compliments of Android).
Each year we try to visit somewhere notable to share that special moment. This year Mother Nature had other ideas. It is almost 11am and no sign of the sun anywhere (yet)!
2022 January 1st ~ Fire Island National Park ~ New York (unedited)
Fire Island sits on the Atlantic ocean off New York's Long Island with only 300 permanent residents but 3331 homes for the summer population of 10,000. Culturally diverse, fun and beautiful, the island, like the sunrise today and beach towns everywhere, won't be as visible in Faith's lifetime if global warming continues.
2022 January 1st ~ Fire Island Lighthouse (unedited)
Faith was kind to contribute a few thoughts on the year that was..."It was nice to see friends again, and get out. But we were clueless. The year did not start or end well for sure."
As for this year..."We just need to push through. We can do it. It can be a great year."
This comes from someone still working on college applications so no promises for next year. But your friendship is precious.
So remember to share your love, enjoy each moment, do more and better, and we will have a great year!!!
2022 January 1st Sunrise that wasn't ~ Faith and CJ (unedited)
Happy New Year!!
Subject: HAPPY NEW YEAR 2023 ~ First Sunrise Photo (Cape May, NJ)
Date/Time: Sunday January 1, 2023 12:58PM
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2023
~ First Sunrise ~
Cape May, NJ
All photos unedited in any way.
Today's photos were taken at America's first beach resort, the historic whaling town of Cape May. After three days of rain, fog and gloom, the sun came in on the horizon over the fog gloriously.
This is our 19th annual sunrise greeting and the first time alone since I am officially an empty nester. Faith (Parker) is now at college but assures me we will be together next year for a very special sunrise. Am excited already.
If you're looking for a few words of wisdom from a freshman; "The biggest thing I learned is that I need to smile...the world really has a lot to offer." And "taking a break is a gift to yourself before beginning something better."
The place is called "Poverty Beach" (despite the nearby prosperity) and in front of the Coast Guard's Live Firing Range (see the white sign and yes, we were asked to not proceed further). Trust you will draw your own inferences as to the name.
We hope you will take a break, ignore the fog and shake off the dismal news of last year (if you had some) and smile more. The world is a good place. We plan to get out more, see more and do more. Not always together in reality, but definitely in spirit.
Cheers and good wishes to everyone!!!
CJ Wilson
More photos at historic Cape May, NJ
Happy New Year 2023
Write back if convenient to receive these photos in the future,
and let us know your plans for the new year. ☀
Subject: HAPPY NEW YEAR 2024 ~ First Sunrise Photo (Brundage, Idaho)
Date/Time: Monday, January 1 2:13PM
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2024
~ First Sunrise of The Year ~
Brundage, Idaho
READY FOR CHANGE AND DRAGONS TOO??
This is our 20th annual New Year's Sunrise greeting. Parker, albeit only slightly in the photo further down, kindly joined me for a northern getaway to see the misty high mountains at dawn. And actually took these first two and actually the best shots. Yay Parker!
We are top of Brundage Mountain (7640') at the Brundage Ski Resort near MacCall, Idaho. This year the snow has been light everywhere but Brundage brands itself as having "the Best Snow in Idaho" so we journeyed from Park City to be sure to get the most snow!
Brundage Mountain, Idaho
With the pace of change increasing in the world and in our lives (and not just the lack of snow), it's hard not to worry about the changes likely in the year ahead. Calm consideration may help.
Lake Payette, MacCall Idaho
Parker, now 19 y.o. and a Kenyon College sophomore, shared this when asked about the pace of change; "Everyone says change is inevitable, but better to just go after the change you want. Then there's no regret. We control how we respond to change, and we can make the personal changes we want too."
So with that confidence we are wishing everyone a truly special New Year full of the changes you seek.
Happy New Year 2024!!
☀
Subject: ⛅HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025 ~ First Sunrise Photo (Red Reef Park, Florida) ☀️
Date/Time: Wednesday, January 1 1:11PM
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025
~ First Sunrise of The Year ~
Red Reef Park, Florida
With last year full of change both good and bad (as we mourn the passing of President Carter and others), we returned to where our annual Sunrise photos started 20 years ago today at the beach in Boca Raton when Parker was just four months old.
We arrived as always while still dark. We looked for the same tall weeds but alas that too has changed.
But the sun did not disappoint! It was magnificent as it rose.
As for my question "is it true that the more things change, the more they stay the same?"
Parker replied "That is too philosophical for me. I am still tired".
But he did add later, "I hope to be more grateful this year...so maybe I will accept change better".
With that we wish you a better New Year than you could imagine!
Keep up the good fight, be grateful and do the right thing.
Happy New Year 2025!!
All photos unedited. No filters or changes.