I'm working on some major updates on my home which has had me sorting through spaces representing different phases in my life. I found and scanned this simple watercolor I did years ago inspired by a postcard with an image by Winslow Homer. I was so new to painting I used plain typing paper, which I should have tapped down, and a set of six of those inexpensive Crayola watercolors. One day when I'm not consumed with my photography business I think I'll try doing some more watercolors.  I also would love to dig out my basket-making supplies from my days with my business Natures Baskets by Deja. I have pounds of beautiful Cedar bark, sweetgrass and pine needles just waiting for me to turn them into some beautiful basket. So much to do and so little time.

I bet I'm not alone it working too much and not playing enough. I need to find time for some fun art projects I know I would enjoy doing once I got started. What are you putting off doing with your creative energy? 

After nourishment, shelter and companionship, stories are the thing we need most in the World. – Philip Pullman 

"This is what I like about photographs. They're proof that once, even if just for a heartbeat, everything was perfect." Jodi Picoult

Today is National Doctors' Day. What a wonderful opportunity to thank the JHC Doctors specifically, Nurses, and all the healthcare providers/staff who have worked so hard to provide our community with care during COVID-19. Jefferson Healthcare celebrated Doctors' Day by sharing a thank you to the staff in The Leader today. I have had the pleasure of photographing all but one provider on this page plus other JHC headshots since 2016.
 

National Doctors' Day

Someone asked me what the most difficult thing about having a dog was. I replied – the goodbye” – Unknown

It has been a tough week. I said goodbye to Sherman last Tuesday afternoon. Cancer in his tummy moved too quickly to his lungs. I buried him with a jar stuffed with photos of him and Hailey and a love letter I wrote to him. A friend brought by flowers that I added to his grave. I can't count the number of times during Covid, that I've said, "I would've been lost if not for my dogs." Being home more the last two years has made his sudden absence even harder for me. Hailey and I both look for him throughout the day.

He stole my heart the first time I saw him at the shelter with those adorable teddy bear ears. I'm glad I have some nice photos of him and a couple of videos of him playing in the yard. He taught me many things including afternoon naps are ok, remember to drink lots of water, go for long walks while you still can, it's ok to stop and smell the roses or whatever else is laying along the trail and rituals are important whether saying goodbye to a pet or a loved one. Thank you to friends who have reached out to me this last week. I just wish we would've had more time together. This photo was from just over a month ago, what a handsome fellow.

I know I'm not alone in the sadness when losing a pet. How have you handled the loss of your cat or dog? Did you do a little ritual when saying goodbye? 

I'm so blessed to have two beautiful shelter dogs in my life. I adopted Sherman over four years and Hailey a couple of years ago. Sherman is the tri-colored Border Collie mix is around nine. We had several inches of snow here in Port Townsend a week or ago and I was surprised to see how much Sherman loved laying in the snow. Hailey, the German Shepherd mix, is three and more active. She loved running and playing in the snow. 

Last year I stepped down from photographing shelter animals looking to be adopted at our local animal shelter the Humane Society of Jefferson County. I had volunteered there for over 15 years, taking photos every Sunday, creating a poster, and sharing my photos with the shelter for them to post on the website Petfinder. Petfinder is a searchable database that helps animals find homes.

I really enjoy taking pet photos for my clients and wish I took more of them, luckily I have my own models. Too often I'm asked to take photos of a family's cat or dog when an owner finds that their pet has become sick. I would much rather be able to include a family pet anytime when taking family photos for a client. I have the ability to photograph dogs, or cats, in my Port Townsend studio. Taking photos in the studio offers fewer distractions and my constant lights reduce the fear a dog might have with a flash going off. The gray background paper I use really makes for a lovely photo. You can visit my Pet Photography Gallery to see more photos. Don't put off taking a photo of your "fur" family member, anytime is a great time to photograph your family pet. 

January is the perfect time to consider updating your Professional Headshot. While the weather may be frightful right now, with our cold temps and snow on the ground, my studio is warm and toasty. My Port Townsend portrait studio is located just down from Jefferson Healthcare. I do many of the Jefferson Healthcare employees along with local Port Townsend local real estate agents and even local authors needing headshots for their book jackets. I'll put you at ease and capture a business portrait you will be pleased to use on social media or business cards.  Give me, Deja, a call today to set up an appointment. You can reach me at (360) 385-2662.

Professional Headshots in Port TownsendDeja View Photography offers professional headshots in her Port Townsend studio.