minding my nest

practicing the art of an ordinary life

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Empty Nest + New Stories

It happens every year around this time. Seeing my friends post about their seniors in high school or sending their kids off to college. It takes me right to that same time in my own life. My girl was getting ready to start her senior year in high school and I was already feeling the rumblings of ... read more

Filed Under: life 5 Comments

Milkweed + Monarchs | If You Plant It, They Will Come

On August 5th, I spied this magnificent monarch butterfly on the milkweed in my garden. When I planted this milkweed earlier this spring, I had assumed that I wouldn't see any monarchs until next year during their main spring migration. But lo and behold, look what I found after she ... read more

Filed Under: Nature 3 Comments

All Hail The Queen

I recently saw where someone had referred to dahlias as the queen of the summer garden. Regal Majestic Stately Beautiful Elegant Graceful Yes indeed, I do believe this exceptional flower fits the description perfectly. And I am proud to be one of her loyal ... read more

Filed Under: gardening 2 Comments

Finding Strength in the Beauty

Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.” Rachel Carson Some wise words from Ms. Carson today. Feeling very grateful for all of the beauty and light and magic of summer today. Love, Kelly ... read more

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53 Years of Resilience

The oil industry was booming in Tulsa in the 1970's, and according to my mom’s friend and coworker, Sandy, if you couldn’t find work there, it’s because you didn’t want to find it. That’s why she and her husband, Carl, were making plans to move to Tulsa.  For my parents, the promise of ... read more

Filed Under: family 16 Comments

Around Here

Around here my garden is a constant source of delight and joy. The zinnias are really taking off with their kaleidoscope of colors and the dahlias are just getting started with their luscious blooms. Having little bouquets of flowers around the house makes me ridiculously happy. Around here ... read more

Filed Under: life 1 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!

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December Daily® 2020

2019 Memory Keeping

2019 Memory Keeping

Week in the Life™ 2019

Week in the Life 2019

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AROUND THE WEB

Regular Contributor to Focusing on Life.

Story Teller for Ali Edwards Design Team

Currently Teaching at Big Picture Classes.

My Portfolio - Kelly Ishmael Photography

the latest on instagram

Happy Friday friends! Our big snow has lasted quit Happy Friday friends! Our big snow has lasted quite a long time since it’s been so cloudy and cold. But the return of the sun yesterday was very much appreciated and I love how it made the remaining snow sparkly and twinkly.✨

I’ve got a marathon gift-wrapping sesh planned and tiny bit of shopping left to do. What’s on your agenda this weekend?
The sweetest gift from the sweetest girl. ❤️✨
We woke up to winter yesterday! The snow started a We woke up to winter yesterday! The snow started around 7:30 with the biggest, fluffiest, wettest flakes and it didn’t let up until around 4:30. I walked around with a big, goofy smile on my face most of the day. It was so beautiful and so peaceful. At one point I was outside taking photos and I could hear the downtown church bells off in the distance. It was utterly magical in every way. ❄️
I spent last week in Kansas City with Tripp. And a I spent last week in Kansas City with Tripp. And after I got home yesterday and unloaded the car and unpacked my stuff, I was feeling a little frazzled and out of sorts.

I was sitting in my chair in the living room, picking at the cuticle on my thumb, trying to decide if I wanted to go for a walk. I knew it would make me feel better, but there was the pressing matter of my cuticle and trying to decide what to do about dinner. And all the usual things that fill up my head this time of year.

After debating about it in my head for a few more minutes, I finally willed myself out of my chair. And on my way out the door I grabbed my camera.

Best. Decision. Ever.

Walking through the neighborhood helps me to feel grounded and more connected to my surroundings. Plus nature is always source of delight and taking photos is so meditative and soothing. It was a breath of fresh air in every possible way. So good for my mind and my body and my soul.

It always feels good to come home. And yesterday it felt good to come home to myself.
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