February 17, 2026
Morning Reflections
Year of the Open Sky…
Chinese New Year Morning – Venice Pier
This morning felt different in the best way. Chinese New Year sunrise. Soft blues and silver clouds stretched across the sky like silk. The air was crisp, the waves were big, and everything felt alive.
Pegleg was the first to greet me—of course he was. Standing tall on the railing like the unofficial guardian of the pier. The seagulls gathered quickly after that, watching the waves roll in. The surfers were out early, smiling as they carved through the swell. Big waves today. Happy waves.
And then… the pigeons.
They came flying in from every direction like I had sent out an invitation. Circling. Landing. Stacking on top of one another in pure excitement. I always say they make me feel welcomed—but today it felt even deeper than that. It felt like confirmation.
Honey Girl settled onto my shoulder like she always does. Calm. Steady. Certain.
The joy was layered. Literally and spiritually.
I held up my message:
Fire Horse… the year where things suddenly start flowing. The year you choose boldly. The year your visibility expands. And the year you finally step in the direction that’s been calling you.
As I read it against the backdrop of crashing waves and open sky, I felt it in my chest.
This is a year to move forward boldly.
A year to let things flow instead of forcing them.
A year to expand into who we already are.
What a beautiful way to begin.
Surrounded by wings.
Surrounded by movement.
Surrounded by love.
I am so grateful.
Capturing beauty, sharing light.
—April
Morning Gratitude Thought:
The way you start your year matters. Today reminded me that when we choose boldly, the universe responds. The waves rise. The birds gather. The path becomes clear. I’m grateful for open skies, loyal wings, and the courage to step forward.
