minding my nest

practicing the art of an ordinary life

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Rose Season

It was a good year for roses in my neck of the woods.From those very first buds in April, it was fun to watch in anticipation and excitement as my roses started to bloom.Earlier last week, I was out back with my coffee on my morning walkabout, admiring their beauty and literally stopping to smell ... read more

Filed Under: gardening 4 Comments

The Golden Thread of Motherhood

In the beginning, a big part of this online space was devoted to motherhood and learning to navigate the changes that came along on my empty-nest journey. My biggest fear was that after my daughter left for college, my story, or at least what I thought was my best chapter, would come to an ... read more

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Beauty in May

Beauty is truth, truth beauty, - that is allYe know on earth, and all ye need to know.~John KeatsAn abundance of blooms. An accumulation of color.So much gratitude for the beauty in May. Love, Kelly ... read more

Filed Under: gardening Leave a Comment

Songs in the Key of Light

On any given Friday night, there is a good chance that you will find Tripp and me downstairs in the basement watching TV. And because there isn't usually anything we want to watch on regular TV, we often end up watching YouTube videos. Now, Tripp knows that I have a very "delicate sensibility" and ... read more

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The Way of the Rose

Believe not those who sayThe upward path is smooth,Lest thou shouldst stumble in the way,And faint before the truth.It is the only roadUnto the realms of joy;But he who seeks that blest abodeMust all his powers employ.Bright hopes and pure delightsUpon his course may beam,And there, amid the ... read more

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Earth Day Delight

Last Friday, I enjoyed a visit from a beautiful eastern tiger swallowtail butterfly. I followed this lovely lady as she made her way into the backyard and then I watched as she landed on the azeleas. She stayed there for quite a while, getting a good, long drink. And it made me so happy to know that ... read more

Filed Under: Nature Leave a Comment

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About Me

Hi There! I’m Kelly. I am a wife, mom, light seeker, homemaker, and storyteller. From an empty nest to an abundant life, all it took was a little time, a lot of faith, and the courage to see my life differently.

You can read more about my story here.

So now, armed with my trusty Canon camera, here is where I share my journey to live an inspired and intentional life.

Welcome to my little corner of the interwebs!

Learning to See Photography Series

December Daily® 2023


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Regular Contributor to Focusing on Life.

Story Teller for Ali Edwards Design Team

Currently Teaching at Big Picture Classes.

My Portfolio - Kelly Ishmael Photography

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