Joanna Geiger Photography

My favorite summer destination is Tanglewood, nestled in the Berkshire Hills of Lenox, Massachusetts. This picturesque venue is the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO), creating a magical atmosphere filled with the sounds of classical music. On warm summer afternoons, we picnic on the sprawling lawn, where we bask in the sun and enjoy the soothing performances of masterpieces by Beethoven and Mozart that drift through the air like a gentle breeze.

Tanglewood also draws an impressive array of popular artists, including Berkshire resident James Taylor, every year on the 3rd and 4th of July. Attending these concerts has become a cherished tradition between my daughter and me, and we eagerly prepare by filling our cooler with an array of delicious treats from Guido’s Fresh Marketplace in Great Barrington, MA. This culinary ritual enhances our concert experience, allowing us to savor delightful bites as we soak in the music and atmosphere.

My love of classical music began in a music appreciation class at Hunter College. My professor, a gifted pianist, often enchanted us with Chopin’s exquisite pieces, each note resonating with beauty and emotion. The course introduced me to the elegance of classical music and deepened my understanding of its rich history, leaving an indelible mark on my musical journey. This is why Tanglewood holds such a special place in my heart.

This Mother’s Day, I had the joy of spending quality time with my beautiful daughter. My heart swells with gratitude for the privilege of being her mom, especially to this remarkable soul who brings so much light into my life. We decided to escape to the ocean, our favorite sanctuary, where the rhythmic sound of the waves and the salty breeze help us unwind and feel truly free. Wrapped in the warmth of the sun and surrounded by the vast horizon, we created cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

The soft light in the morning and evening is my favorite time for photography because it turns beautiful landscapes into something truly special. Luckily, being an early riser lets me capture these moments at dawn. Although the golden hour at sunset is more challenging for me, I make an effort to go out during that time too, and I always feel grateful when I do.

My father passed away 22 years ago, leaving a legacy that still resonates with me. He was much like Thoreau, with a deep love for nature. He created a beautiful outdoor sanctuary for my sister and me—a special place where we played as children with friends and our cherished animals—horses, cats, dogs, and rabbits. For 40 years, he dedicated himself to teaching high school, forming strong bonds with his students, and making a meaningful difference in their lives.

My daughter shared a truly special bond with him, even though she was just four years old when he passed away. I remember one summer when he was rehearsing for the role of Coach Van Buren in “Damn Yankees.” He would sing “You Gotta Have Heart” to her, and that beautiful moment led her to affectionately call him “Heart.” That heartfelt nickname stayed with her, a cherished memory of their connection.

He wasn’t one to give advice, but he noticed my passion for photography and once said, “You should do something with this.” Those words still inspire me today. I want to tell you, Daddy…, that I have done something with it, not as a profession but as something that nourishes my soul. I guess I inherited that creative spirit from you. 

New York City, my beloved home for a decade, embodies a vibrant mix of diversity and urban energy. The towering skyscrapers and bustling streets create a fast-paced city scene, beautifully balanced by peaceful spots like Central Park, where one can escape the chaos and find tranquility. Every time I visit, I am always pulled back into that exciting rhythm unique to New York.

What I miss the most are the simple pleasures of walking through the city, from the grandeur of Grand Central Station to the openness of Central Park, discovering captivating sights along the way. New York holds a permanent place in my heart, and no matter where life takes me, the spirit of a New Yorker will always stay with me.

Whether I’m traveling or at home, I take a walk every morning and afternoon. This routine clears my mind and prepares me for the day ahead. It nurtures both my body and spirit, making it an essential part of my life. Walking allows me to enjoy the bright morning sunlight or the warm afternoon glow, while appreciating the beauty around me, revealing details that often go unnoticed when I’m rushing past. Regardless of the season—winter, spring, summer, or fall—walking is the best way to embrace where I live and to make the most of my travels, enjoying life one step at a time.

Lee, Massachusetts, is a charming little town located in the heart of the Berkshires. With its quaint small-town atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural connections to the Berkshires, Lee is truly a hidden gem!

Be sure to visit the Starving Artist Creperie and Café, where you can indulge in delicious crepes, sandwiches, and salads made with farm-to-table ingredients. Each month, the café proudly showcases the amazing artwork of a local artist on its walls. Additionally, every Sunday, you can enjoy live music performed by talented local musicians.

As winter drags on, with frigid temperatures and heavy snow blanketing the landscape, I can’t help but reminisce about the warmth of summer. My mother had a profound passion for her flower garden, where vibrant blooms brought her joy and peace. In her honor, each summer without fail, I plant a bed of cheerful zinnias, their bold colors reminiscent of her spirited personality. I affectionately name it “Janet’s Garden,” a tribute to the woman who nurtured both her plants and those she loved. This garden stands as a vivid reminder of her legacy, providing a burst of life and color during the sunlit months and a comforting thought during these chilly winter days.

Lakeville has experienced a snowy winter, transforming the landscape around Lake Wononscopomuc into a beautiful winter wonderland. In contrast, on a lovely summer day, the lake’s clear blue water sparkles in the sun. The barn looks like a scene from a Currier and Ives painting in winter and offers a picturesque view in the fall. Down the street in Salisbury, Selleck Hill offers scenic views both in the winter and summer. Overall, it’s not a bad place to visit any time of the year.  

Chapin Memorial Beach, commonly referred to as Chapin Beach, is a stunning destination situated on the north side of Dennis, Massachusetts, overlooking Cape Cod Bay. The beach features a wide tidal flat that extends nearly a mile during low tide. Surrounded by dunes and offering breathtaking views of the bay, this spot is a popular destination for enjoying serene sunsets.