Another Trip Around the Sun
“Hold fast to what is good.”
Romans 12:9
Today is September 8th and my birthday. I’m so grateful for this past year’s journey around the sun. Not because it was perfect and wonderful, but because it was filled with difficult lessons—lessons which really forced me to see, reflect, accept, and grow. And… It. Was. Hard. This may come as a surprise to most, especially since I haven’t openly shared my challenges with many people.
On days when I was drowning in sorrow and grief, I looked for a silver lining or something positive on which to focus. And, everyday, I held fast to what was good. Much joy and comfort came from painting, visiting with friends, helping others, and spending time on the farm with my beloved pets; however, there were days when all I wanted to do was sit on the sofa and cuddle with sweet Bizou, Dash, and Clemmie….and that’s what I did.
But, there’s a time for reflection, and then there’s forward movement. With every step, good things appeared to me: new friendships, learning and travel experiences, supportive friends, an opportunity to serve on the board of a local organization that helps people in my community with speech, language, and hearing issues. And, there were also exciting achievements; such as, my blog being featured on WordPress Discover, completing new paintings, and passing the WSET Level II sommelier exam.
Although I was fortunate to have these positive experiences during the past year, I realize that the main blessings in my life are always my loving and steadfast husband, Scott as well as Green Hill Farm and our animals. This is the good that sustains me.
Here’s the thing: Sometimes, you just have to take off those rose-colored glasses and SEE life’s true colors. But, don’t be blinded by them, because there are too many GOOD THINGS to behold.
Categories: Inspiration, Photography
Happy Birthday!! I hope you have an amazing and blessed day! I am happy you shared your trip around the sun. It reminds all of us when we have our stormy days that they will soon pass and we can pop those rose colored glasses back on 🙂 Fantastic pictures!!
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Thank you for such a kind comment. 🙂💛
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Life is full of surprises for all, either way. Glad that you looked at the bright side and enjoyed the last year. Have a blessed birthday today and hope the next year is better 🙂
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This is very true, Alok. Many thanks for your thoughtful comment. 🙂🌻
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No matter what happened this past year, you managed to capture that rainbow, in the photo, and in life. Beautiful post, Tonya. Wishing you a year of continued blessings and lessons. Happy Birthday.
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A heartfelt thank you, Van. 💛
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Happy birthday, Tonya! No one’s life can be perfect, but as you mentioned, as painful as it is, it’s through difficult times that we learn and grow. I am thankful to be able to call you friend, a friend that is always encouraging and helpful to me and pointing out all of the positives when things go awry in my life. Wishing you a year ahead filled with many blessings.
P.S. – I love that song! 🙂
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Thank you so much for such a thoughtful and lovely comment, Donna. I am thankful for our friendship as well. Much love! 🙂💗
I love that song, too. I first heard it on Pandora when I was exercising. I’ve been jammin’ out to it the last day or two. 😉
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Happy happy birthday🎂🍭🍬🍨🍦🌹💐Wishing you good health, happiness, joy and wealth. Love you black outfit with hat – gorgeous!😎. Big Hello and shout out to Scott. Plse ask him to continue to take good care of you and be that great big rock of support. Garfield hugs to you both🤗🤗💕💕⚘⚘
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Thank you, Sweet Garfield! You are very kind. 😘
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I love it!! Thank you! Thank you! 🙂💛
I had to go to my computer to see the graphics–so cute!! 🐑
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Happy birthday Tonya!
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Thank you, Ritu!
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So well said! I’m sorry there were misfortunes in your year, but I am so glad you could find those silver linings, and even gladder that you can revel in the growth you’ve experienced. I am always happy to read your uplifting posts. Happiest of birthday wishes to you! ❤
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Thank you so much, Joey. Your thoughtful comment really means a lot. 🙂 I always appreciate your positive feedback! Many thanks for the lovely birthday wishes. ❤️ xo
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Have a very special day! x
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Thank you, Cheryl. I hope you and your family are safe and out of Irma’s way. Take care! xo
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Yes, we are Thanks! xx
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That’s good!! 🙂
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x
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Great photos! Years ago, on the anniversary of my birth, a close friend said, “What have you learned in the past year?” I never forgot those words and reflect on them once a year. Happy Birthday! Have a Christ-filled day! 🌟✨💫
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Many thanks. That’s a wonderful question! I shall remember it and reflect. Thank you so much for sharing. 🙂☀️
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many happy returns of the day Tonya…… Hope yo had a blast today……. god bless you…… keep smiling….
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That’s very kind. Thank you, Sudhir. 🌻
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Happies of Happies lovely lady and may the year to come be bountiful, beautiful and blessed for you 🙂
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Thank you for such a kind and thoughtful birthday wish, Osyth. 🙂 xo
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Happy, Happy Birthday, dear Tonya! You are such an inspiration and shining light! I hope you have a birthday as wonderful as you are! With big hugs and blessings, Cher xo
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That’s really generous and kind, Cher. A heartfelt thank you. I appreciate your friendship. 🙂❤️ xo
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Ah, bless! Thank you, Tonya! Right back at you my dear! 🙂 ❤ xo
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🙂❤️
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Cin cin and let the good times and drops flow abundantly! Happy birthday! ❤
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How lovely! Thank you. 🙂💗
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Happy birthday!!!!!! 🙂
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Thank you so much! 🙂
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Happy birthday. I raise a good Alsatian Pinot Gris to your good health and a better year to follow. Husbands are to be cherished! Much love Cathy x
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The Pinot Gris sounds wonderful! Thank you for your kind wishes. 🙂💛 xo
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Happy birthday! Good for you taking that verse to heart-I hope this new year is happy and full of blessings!
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Thank you for the lovely birthday wish. 🙂💗
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Happy birthday! Enjoy your day, you most deserve it!
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You’re kind! Many thanks. 🙂
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Happy Birthday!
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Thanks very much, Deborah. 🙂 xo
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❤
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Happy Birthday! Hope you are having a wonderful day!
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That’s so nice!! Thank you. 🙂
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Belated happy birthday! A rainbow is all the more beautiful for appearing against a dull grey sky Hugs xxx
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That’s lovely catterel. Thank you. xoxo
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Happy 18th Birthday, Tonya!! I never knew how old you were but after the photo you shared I now know. You write very well for a teenager..:)
I’m sorry about the challenges you faced this year and pray when you celebrate your 19th birthday many of the difficulties you faced this year will be in the past.
Hope you’re enjoying your birthday weekend😊🍰🎂
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Oh, George! You’re too funny…and generous. You know what they say about flattery….😉 Thank you for brightening my day!🌻
A heartfelt thank you for such a supportive comment. Many thanks for always being so positive and kind. I truly appreciate it. 😊💛
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Happy belated birthday! I hope you celebrated with a good bottle of wine.
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Thank you very much. We did! We’d been saving a bottle of Baron de Pichon-Longueville 1985 for a special occasion. It was wonderful, especially after it opened up a bit. 🙂
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happy birthday! nice perspective, and beautifully written!
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Thank you for your warm birthday wishes and for visiting! 🙂
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Here’s to you, to Scott, to your lovely writing, and to the challenges of the next trip around the sun being a lot less painful.
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Thank you for your generosity and kindness, Judy. Your friendship has been one of the highlights of my year! ❤️
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Happy belated birthday. May your new age brings you fulfilment.
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Thank you! So glad you visited! 🙂
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You’re gladly welcome
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Happy belated birthday, dear Tonya! 🎶
🎂 or 🍰 or ?
I hope a little wine and dancing. . .🍾🍷🍷some gifts and time well spent. . .
Sorry life gave some sadness and misfortune, Tonya. . . tears shed for pets and lives. 🕊
Happy new year around the sun ☀ to a wonderful woman who has a lovely home, farm and the love of her life! ❤❤
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You are so sweet, Robin!! Thank you for the nice birthday wishes. I had a wonderful day! 💗 xo
P.S. Cake is my favorite! 😉
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I love cake, too! You’re so welcome, Tonya. I am happy to hear you had a wonderful day. 🌻
You wearing that pretty dress are stunning, dear! xo 💖
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That’s really nice of you to say, Robin! Thank you. 💗 xo
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