July 4, 2026
Afternoon Reflections
A Little More Joy Floating By…
Some afternoons have a way of reminding us that happiness doesn’t have to be complicated.
Today, the Venice Canals were alive with laughter as hundreds of bright yellow rubber ducks floated toward the finish line. They bobbed through the water, neck and neck, while people lined the bridges and canal banks cheering them on. For a little while, everyone became a kid again.
Nearby, a kayaker drifted by dressed head to toe in red, white, and blue, adding even more patriotic spirit to the day. At the beach, American flags danced in the breeze, a colorful kite climbed higher into the sky, and a happy dog proudly carried his frisbee along the shoreline as if he had won his own little championship.
Adonis was right where I hoped he’d be, standing tall on his favorite perch, quietly watching over it all. Then came one of my favorite moments of every day… the birds flew toward me with so much excitement. No matter how many times it happens, it still fills my heart.
Just when I thought the afternoon couldn’t get any better, the Joker of Venice rolled by on his skateboard, waving his American flag and bringing smiles to everyone he passed.
Joy was everywhere today. Sometimes it races down a canal. Sometimes it flies in on wings. Sometimes it simply reminds us to slow down and enjoy the moment.
Happy Fourth of July.
Capturing beauty, sharing light.
—April
