One of my end-of-year rituals is the creation of a photo book entitled:  Scott & Marilyn, Our Year in Pictures.  

Every year, I scramble to get it published, printed and delivered before Scott’s birthday on January 9.  Every free moment around the holiday time, I park myself in front of the fireplace, sorting and sifting through my iPhoto library to choose those that capture the best memories of a jam-packed year.  I always underestimate the hours I will spend on this project – but the end result is always worth it.  (Any perfectionists out there?  You know what I’m talking about!)

When all is said and done, every year’s book is a treasured masterpiece – and a great historical reference of our relationship, travels, travails, hairstyles and facial hair (his – not mine!). In the process of sorting through my 7,536 photos from the last 12 months – I found a several winners that I’d like to share with you!

Makena Beach, Maui

This was a fun shot to compose.  I propped up my camera, turned on the 10-second timer, and started kissing (that is my husband, by the way)!

Danang, Vietnam

I was the Tour Leader in Vietnam for a group of women from an organization called Dining for Women. We visited a local NGO that supported impoverished single mothers with life-changing micro loans. I love this image of Judi and one of the grandmas, sharing a moment and a smile while viewing some of Judi’s photos on her camera.

Halong Bay, Vietnam

One of the fascinating things about international travel is seeing how people live in other countries and cultures. In Halong Bay, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, there are floating villages where people have lived for generations. A man and small child peek out from this colorful floating home, complete with all the accoutrements of daily living: hammocks, laundry, citrus tree and a pile of dirty dishes!  Some things are universal!

Many years ago, my friend and business partner, Michael Day, was taking a photograph of me and suggested that on his count of 3, that I throw open my arms.  Weird.  It felt strange and contrived at the time – but the photo was great!  Since then I’ve borrowed that page from his playbook.  Anyone who has ever traveled with me expects – after about the 3rd or 4th static posed photo – that I’ll request they throw open their arms (trying not to hit anyone in the face!), and give an enthusiastic shout of “wow!”   The difference is amazing – it adds more energy and fun to a group photo!

Halong Bay, Vietnam

In this favorite photo, my group was assembled on the aft end of our Halong Bay cruise boat … making a collective and very colorful fashion statement in our pastel ponchos and neon orange life vests.  I just love the expression on everyone’s face …. it captured the genuine fun and enthusiasm we shared on that day’s adventure!

The “before” photo ….

As you see, the “before” picture was great … just not as much fun!

Hoi An, Vietnam

(In case you’re wondering, yes, I did travel elsewhere besides Vietnam last year, but the country is a photographer’s dream and I can’t help myself!)

This lady, passing us on the river en route to the market, reveals what I most love about Vietnam: the hospitality and genuine warmth of the people. I’ve been there four times and was blown away by the friendliness every single time. After all, they’re Communists!  A few generations later, and we’re all friends.

Speaking of Communists, another perennial favorite place is Cuba. I love everything about it – especially the people. On each of my first several visits, there was a very old, very ugly, very brazen lady who commandeered this space, right next to a famous Hemingway watering hole.  She had thick, coke-bottle glasses and seemed to have one less tooth each time.  Her accomplice collected a dollar (or the Cuban equivalent) from every tourist who took a photo – even from those who tried to sneak a picture with a telephoto lens some distance away.  Nobody got away without paying!  It was quite something to watch!

Havana, Cuba

On my most recent visit her two “henchmen” were there, but the old lady was missing.  When I asked them about her, they teared up, explaining that she had died.  I’m certain that that old lady died a very, very wealthy woman!  (I’d love to know more about her life … and maybe I will learn more on my next visit.  Sure wish I spoke Spanish . . .)

Westchester (near LAX), California

I may be one of the few in southern California who isn’t a rabid fan of In-N-Out Burger, which enjoys almost mythic status around these parts.  Nevertheless, when my two nieces arrived this summer from Michigan (sans parents) to spend a week with their Favorite Aunt Marilyn, I decided they should begin their visit with a legendary Double-Double, Hand-Cut French Fries and a Chocolate Shake (made with real ice cream).  This iconic LA feast was devoured on the grassy patch just across from the drive-thru, while plane-spotting under the flight path of Runway 24-Right.

The Maldives

This photo is what it is.  Simply inviting!  Sad to say, however, that I didn’t get to enjoy any time in that hammock.  But I did have a love affair with Oriental Sweetlips, as I divulged in my blog post of May 22, 2014!

Lake Bled, Slovenia

A mirror-like lake, castle on a rocky bluff, church spire and autumn-tinged trees . . . scenery doesn’t get a whole lot prettier than this!

Rovinj, Croatia

Not sure why, but I love laundry pictures.  I don’t know if the lady of the house purposefully composed this study in indigo and white … against a richly textured wall of stucco and brick. I think it’s absolutely beautiful!!

Venice, Italy

Quite possibly, the hippest gondolier in Venice!  I love this photo!

Venice, Italy

On the final night of my group’s incentive program in Venice, we were all dressed up with no place to go! We were staying on Giudecca Island – across the canal from Venice – without ANY way of transferring to our beautiful palace where the gala dinner was to take place.  The private water taxis had been ordered, but not a vessel was moving anywhere in Venice with the thunder, lightening and hail that was happening that evening.

Fortunately, it was a fast-moving storm so we were able to get to the palace with plenty of time to drink prosecco, snack on tasty hors oeuvres, enjoy an elegant 4-course meal and be “wowed” by the gorgeous Italian tenor who entertained us with his unforgettable talent!  Oh, what a night!

Comments?  Which photo would you vote for?