I’ve been informed that running outside in this

will guarantee an all-day headache. Our entire city is a literal health hazard until we get some snow. Still, the pink clouds and elusive blue sky are kind of picturesque, aren’t they?
It’s just plain sad the the darkest and bleakest month of the year is, by necessity, also a time of calorie restriction and budget consciousness. Oh, I understand why– my waistband and credit card bill are bulging too– but it just seems like we could all use a cup of hot chocolate and a bit of frivolous spending right now.
And even if I get my run in at the gym, the smog seeps through the cracks and windows of my life in January. I have to work to stay happy. Yesterday, I tucked my camera under my shoulder and photographed the moments that made me smile.








It’s good. January is good.
Selwyn
Clear, warm skies here – you know you’re welcome ANY time!
Pity you can’t run in that scene, it looks pretty (though obviously looks can be deceiving.)
Hope you feel better soon (and one of my ‘feel better’ songs is “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone, played REALLY LOUD.)
xoxoxoxo SK
Melinda
I must tell you how much you impact your stories and photos have on people. I have a friend in Kaysville who called me the other day asking how I knew you. She gushed over your photography. Jesse’s cousin is a huge fan as well, I wonder how many secret stalkers you really have. I just wanted to tell you how much I love you and feel so honored that we actually know each others name. You are extremely talented and have a beautiful life, even the not to fun moment are full of beauty.
Danielle
Gorgeous pics Michelle! I showed my husband that first one and said “I want to move THERE!” He said no, sigh. LOL.
Tracy
Those pictures are pure magic and happiness. I can feel it here.
..and I think I need to take a bubble bath now.
xoxo,t
Sue
Boy, you are some photographer! Those are amazing shots.
And I love the way your kids relate to each other. Real buddies.
=)
Kerri
I’m not convinced that January is good, but your pictures went a long way towards making me think it just might be possible to endure it…
In my next life, I want to take pictures like you do.
Jeanelle
What a sweet dad to send you flowers. I love the valentines. That would be a guaranteed pick-me up to see that display every day. We have nothing but warmish rain here. I want snow and cold so badly. It’s winter! And you know what? You always make the BEST music recommendations and I love everything you mention here so thanks for telling me about a cool song to try. I will not ask for my money back. 😉
Claudia
Analisa will especially love the picture of Hans.
It hurts to go outside. I hate it.
The song you recommended has been at the top of my most played for a month. I can’t help but get my groove on every time I hear it.
Lets do lunch soul-sister. Salads, of course;)
katieo
but it just seems like we could all use a cup of hot chocolate and a bit of frivolous spending right now.
word to that.
(p.s. We LOVE Soul Sister!!)
e miller photography-Salem Oregon Photography
Hey! I see an OR zip code on a shirt! Where did that one come from?
martha corinna
Too many beautiful photos and thoughts to comment on.
I’ve been running outside and afterwords I cough like I just smoked a pack of cigarettes, which essentially, I did.
Do you want to meet me for some frivolous spending soon? I’ve been saving my money in a jar because I really am trying to be better.
Trainer Momma
These pics made me happy too. Thanks for the cheer. Wow, your pics always take my breath away!
Alyson (New England Living)
I love, love your Valentine’s decorations! I don’t have any, but you are inspiring me! 🙂
When we lived in Utah, we lived in Park City. I was always grateful that we lived above all those nasty inversions you guys have in the valley. January can be such a bummer with that kind of air!
Michelle
That song! Oh Michelle—-that song!
My day floated on a cloud of sweetness because, once again, you totally wrote directly to me without even realizing it.
I can’t stop listening to Soul Sister.
Well played friend, well played.
Michelle
P.S. I’m coming back! Can’t wait to share my new blog with its’ new look, new tone, new everything. I’ll certainly let you know when it’s up and running!
Jeanette
i loved your pics! they were a breath of fresh air!