Summer 2020 was my fifty-fifth summer and I used it to rediscover parts of myself that had receded. I took long walks with my camera. I saw graffiti, orange traffic cones, and reflections in windows and raindrops. The ordinary became interesting. How I experienced my neighborhood — and myself — changed. Both felt more alive.
These walks with my camera became essential when my husband, Guy, was diagnosed with lymphoma. We spend a lot of time in the hospital and it’s hard and sad. Still, everyday something catches my eye and reminds me that our fear and pain will be interrupted by pangs of delight and awe.
Scroll down to see my current favorites and click on the collections to explore more of what I’ve seen on my walks. I hope some of what I’ve captured in these photographs helps you to notice and wonder.
-Karen Reivich
“I feel closer to what language can’t reach.” - Rilke
Melting
Bike against a graffiti wall in Philly
Sardine cans in Ponta Delgado
Bamboo grove
Cape May
Shutters at Coco Thai in Narberth
Koi pond in Ponta Delgado
Snowmass Mountain
Chains
Junk yard
Orange cones
Shutters at Coco Thai in Narberth
I don’t remember!
Brooklyn
Winter 2025
Twigs in snow
NOLA from Ubers
NOLA from Ubers
NOLA from Ubers
NOLA from Uber
NOLA from Ubers
NOLA from Ubers
Autumn 2024
Barcelona
Fountain coins. Before,
I walked by. Now, each penny
is a prayer for Guy.
Today Guy starts a clinical trial at MD Anderson in Houston. Moving to Houston comes with challenges and hope. Amidst my worry, I continue to find goodness, light and shimmering reflections; each providing a moment of comfort. I’m sharing those moments below.
Treatment is working. This picture is everything. An ocean of joy. #cancerhaiku
Fall’s kintsugi
Window painted tree. No shade or after rain smell. Yet green glass delights. #cancerhaiku
Post storm beauty? Yes. But don’t romanticize storms. Calm skies are better. #cancerhaiku
Linden tree painting. Heart shaped leaves that bring healing. We wait under you. #cancerhaiku Guy and I sit under a mural of leaves painted on glass when we wait for his treatment. I started wondering about the type of tree and learned that it's a Basswood Tree, also known as a Linden Tree. It's known for its medicinal powers of comfort and healing.
Waiting for green light. A short rest together, then we continue on. #cancerhaiku
Computers, lunch packed. Treatment is our work day now. No job matters more. #cancerhaiku
Koi Dreams
May we be strong and loving
bring light into our home
accept what is true
adapt and grow
together
This week’s favorite paintings and photos.
BEAUTY FLOATS
Round 1, Day 1
Round 2, Day 1
Round 4, Day 1
Round 3, Day 1
Round 6, Day 1
Round 5, Day 1
Inspired by the Aspens of Colorado
“Seeking grace in every step he takes…”
John Denver
“I don’t own this land. But in walking it over and over again and paying it the greatest attention I’ve made it mine.”
-Helen Macdonald in H is for Hawk
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Orange Ghostfish
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ghostfish
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Distortion
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Simplicity
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“I feel that things are more like me now. That I can see farther into paintings.” — Rilke
Lake Placid
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Street art 072421
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Schuylkill River Reflections
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Cosmos
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Steam roller
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