I felt that a good "smudging"...

was in order for this year.

For centuries smudging, the burning of aromatic herbs, has been practiced among Native Americans to purify objects and locations. Desert Mugwort grows at high altitudes, collects the energy around it, and releases it when burnt. Negative energy is dispelled and cleared for new beginnings.

This has been a challenging year in many respects but also one of some clarity. One of the highlights for me has been Blip and the making of connections with like minded people who see their world a little differently. Since I have taken photos on a daily basis for years, the act of posting one a day came fairly easily but being hyper critical of any of my own artwork, on some days I feel like I haven't quite hit the mark. On those days there never fails to be a kind or positive word from my fellow blippers though so tonight, I raise a glass to you and thank you for the joy, education, and laughs that you have brought to me "Cheers, and Happy New Year!"