December Newsletter 2024
Suzie Biehler
Life-long photographer. Practitioner of Mindful Photography. My fine art fosters deeper connections with surroundings. An advocate of mindfulness in photography, I strive to empower others to practice to reduce anxiety.
Aspen White ~ Embracing the Lushness of the Approaching Winter Season
As the Winter Solstice draws near, we’re welcomed by the deepening darkness of the days. Both inwardly and outwardly, this season invites us to explore new layers of inspiration.
“Winter will be the time to lie down and let the whispers of my soul dream through me.” ? --Tracee Stanley
Becoming, 2022
Life is an endless dance of becoming. I was captivated by this young tulip, poised on the brink of bloom, ready to seduce the flower community and mesmerize all who gaze upon its unfolding beauty.
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Joie de Danse, sculptured by American Artist, Elbert Weinberg
It first graced the opening of the iconic Portman Hotel in San Francisco, a moment etched in my memory. They were a valued client, and I vividly recall stepping into the third-floor lobby for the first time. I wasn’t just captivated—I was utterly spellbound. This image, captured just months ago, reveals the sculpture still as commanding and mesmerizing as ever, now residing in a hotel with a different name. Yet, art remains eternal, unchanged by time or place. Thank goodness for that.
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December Blog: The Duality of Two Worlds
Now I get it—or at least, I think I do. As I read, meditate, absorb, and occasionally wrestle with myself, I’ve started to understand why so many medical professionals prescribe antidepressants to aging adults.
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?City of Hope ~ all about Community Engagement
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Volunteering at the City of Hope Café ~
A Morning of Community and Connection
Yesterday, I had the honor of volunteering at the City of Hope Café, located in San Francisco’s Tenderloin district. The mission of this café, and the organization behind it, is beautifully simple: Community Engagement. As Founder & CEO Rev. Paul Trudeau explains, it’s all about bringing people together.
I arrived promptly at 8:30 am for my 3-hour shift as a server, ready to be part of something meaningful and I could feel that the moment I walked through the door.
The volunteer team was guided through training by a talented staff, shown above with some of the volunteers. Our job was to serve coffee, tea, lattes, hot chocolate, and delicious treats—freshly prepared by Pastry Chef Michelle Polzine (pictured above, with her signature cheesy toast and Italian bologna). Many of you may recognize Michelle from her time at the iconic 20th Century Café, formerly located in the Civic Center. Her story is as rich as her food, and her passion for serving the community is evident in every dish.
As a server, our primary goal wasn’t just to serve food—it was to connect. We were encouraged to greet customers by name, to remember their stories, and to make every person feel seen and welcomed. And the customers? (see above) were kind, gracious, and grateful.
This space is not just a café; it’s a sanctuary of connection—a place where everyone, regardless of their background, can come together in a safe and welcoming environment. All food is complimentary. It was truly inspiring to be part of such a beautiful effort to build community, one cup of coffee at a time.
Volunteer, read about other services and ways to become involve. https://www.cityhopesf.org/volunteer
From the Family Archives
Ode to Family Holidays
My Dad did love taking family photographs - slides to be exact. I was fortunate to be the caretaker of close to 1000 family slides. During Christmastime, he always seemed to shine best with the camera. And of course, we were adorned in true holiday dress. Cherished times.
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Happy Holidays! May the mystery of the season inspire you.
Use coupon code, holidaymagic for 20% off all prints & merch
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Tempo Enterprises & CardConnect (a Fiserv Company)
2 个月Suzie, I really enjoyed your December Blog on the Duality of Two Worlds. It resonated with my spirit and place in life. Thank you for the vulnerability and for sharing.