Sometimes, a lovely break does not need much: my camera, my dog Liza, and a walk in nature. Yesterday, we came home with these photographs — little reminders of our time outdoors that I would like to share with you.
Liza explores — and I take a closer look
While Liza puts her nose and ears to work on the important matters of dog life, I look for light, colours, and small details to photograph. So we both have a job to do. Although Liza is probably convinced that hers is far more important. After all, you cannot just walk past an interesting blade of grass without a proper investigation. 😂
In one photograph, she is standing in the grass, her pale fur catching the sunlight, looking at something I might otherwise have missed. In another, she looks straight into the camera. That expression could easily mean: “Have you got your photo yet? We have places to sniff!”
Small moments along the way
Having my camera with me gives me a reason to pause. I look more closely at what is around us: the light between the trees, the colours, and the little things that are easy to overlook when everyday life keeps moving.
This time, I am in the photographs too, surrounded by trees and sunlight. After all, there is a person behind the camera who belongs in this little story as well.
More than an illness
Fabry disease is part of my life. But so are Liza, photography, and moments like these. Here at Rare & Chronic Voices, I want to make room for that part of life too: the things we enjoy, the interests we cherish, and what matters to us as people.
That does not mean anyone needs to go on a big outing or come home with beautiful photographs. A good break can look different for each of us, and it can change from one day to the next. Sometimes, a quiet moment at home is exactly what fits.
For me, these photographs are a lovely reminder of yesterday. And Liza? She is probably already thinking about her next sniffing adventure. 🐾
What has brought you a little joy lately? Is there a photograph, a place, or a small moment you especially like looking back on? I would love to hear about it in the comments.
Words and photographs: Daniel Kraus · Rare & Chronic Voices