Violet on the River (St. Croix River, Minnesota)

This is the first photo I ever took that made me realize just how much beauty was sitting quietly in front of me — waiting to be noticed. The first photo on The Walk Back Home.

In the early stillness of a Minnesota morning, Violet stood at the edge of the St. Croix River, where mist rising from the water and the morning sun created colors and reflections that took my breath away.

She hated the car ride to get here — but once she was near the boat, near the waves, she lit up. This was her place. Her joy. Her calm.

I hope her soul is chasing waves. In my heart it is.