A Book Of Dreams

For quite awhile my sweetheart and I have talked and dreamed about going to Alaska.  It’s something we really want to do but it hasn’t happened yet.  It’s on our list – near the top!  So, while we think and dream and plan, we love to read all we can about the beauty of our state to the north.  And when there’s a chance to see photos – especially those of someone we know – it’s an inspiration to keep planning to make our dream come true.
I have a friend – a dear blog friend – who has been to Alaska and brought it back through her photography.  Donna began to share Alaska photos shortly after I discovered her blog (Cottage Days and Journeys) - and I must say that I was mesmerized!  I was enchanted and as I studied each photo she shared I commented and told her of our dream.  She encouraged us to go – even suggested that we should join them on their last trip!  Since that wasn’t possible, I was content to see Alaska through her eyes.  Donna continued to encourage me and inspire me – and then one day last fall she announced a give-away.  She was giving away two photo books she had ‘published’.  All I had to do was comment often through the months of November and December – and hope and pray that my name would be drawn.  The first place winner would have her choice of books – one was a variety of photos from around Alaska and the other was all about the brown bears of Alaska.  I would have been happy with either book, but my heart really longed for the one with a variety of photos from all around Alaska.  The day came for the drawing and then – Donna sent me an email telling me that my name had been the first drawn.  Oh – oh – oh!  I could hardly believe it.  Soon the book was on its way to my home and when it arrived there was a sweet, little note tucked inside.  On one of Donna’s handmade notecards.When I removed the tissue paper – there it was.  I’m sure I must have squealed with delight!I knew exactly where this beautiful book belonged.  It is at home on my vintage trunk/coffee table – for everyone who comes by to see.  And it has been seen.  And admired.The first page sets the scene for the rest of the book. Then – pages and pages of gorgeous photos.  My photos of the pages can’t possibly do it justice.  There is wildlife and breathtaking scenery. . .And some of the brown bears of Alaska.Flora and Tundra and exquisite carvings. . .And the most fascinating rustic towns and photos of ice and snow so real you can almost feel the chill.At the end, a graphic and a few words that wrap it all up. . .And a sweet note and autograph.I love beautiful coffee table books.  I’ve gathered a few – some by famous photographers.  But this one is the best.  It’s a treasure – a gift from the heart of a dear friend.  Given with love and a note that encourages us to enjoy the photos.  With hopes that we will see them in person someday.  Soon.  I placed two special pieces of my Willow Tree collection beside my new book.  One piece (Wisdom) was given to me by my dear, little mother – and one (Spirited Child) was from my daughter.  A mother, reading, and a daughter, listening.  And I smile every time I walk by.Donna also made two desktop calendars to give away.  You can see one of them here.