A little Fox 🦊So, it’s been a few weeks since I managed to sit myself down and actually write out my thoughts. Sometimes, that creative train of mine just leaves the station without warning, takes a spontaneous holiday, and refuses to send a postcard. And when it's gone? Let’s just say the creative juices... aren’t exactly getting juiced.

Flower fields and forever friendsMy entry to this week’s PhotoFeed Portrait Photography Contest comes from one of the most fun shoots I’ve done in a while — two gorgeous friends, wrapped in laughter and surrounded by wildflowers in full bloom.

A little bit of natureOne of my favorite quotes — one I come back to again and again — is:“We can complain that rose bushes have thorns, or we can celebrate that thorn bushes have roses.”I’ve probably written about it before, but it just sticks with me. It feels so appropriate to life — and to these photos in particular. These thorn trees, stubborn and wild, were adorned with the tiniest red flowers. Not showy, but undeniably beautiful. A quiet reminder that beauty doesn’t always bloom in softness —I t often shows up right in the middle of harshness.

A little Parrot with a large personalityMeet Finn — a bold, brilliant, and hilariously cheeky companion who made my camera work overtime (and made me laugh the entire time). Finn is a friend of mines baby, a chatty, cuddly, attitude-filled feathered friend. He was so excited when I popped out with my camera and pulled out all the poses... In fact, he was so eager to pose for me that keeping him in focus became a bit of a tricky task.

A Flash of Spots and WhiskersThe servalBack on our honeymoon, we visited the Predator Sanctuary at Mabalingwe — a safe haven for wild animals and big cats rescued from abusive situations. Many of these animals were once kept in zoos, circuses, or by people who mistakenly thought they could be pets. Whenever possible, the sanctuary rehabilitates them and releases them back into the wild. Sadly, for many, a life too heavily touched by humans means they can no longer survive on their own. These animals find a permanent home here, where they are cared for with dignity and compassion.

A bride in bloom🌸 Radiant beauty and love in bloom - A gorgeous flower bride overflowing with joy! Soft petals dancing in the breeze, laughter echoing through flower fields. The gloomy weather a stark contrast to the joyful emotions and love-filled hearts.