Monday, June 20, 2016

A New Adventure

Hydrangeas blooming in the backyard

Hmm, I am sitting here on my kitchen stool, staring into the computer screen, wondering what I am going to write that would be of interest to anyone. I don't want to discuss politics, Lord help us....I don't want to ponder on the recent horrific shootings, or the two little ones who wavered off the path and came face to face with danger.

I don't want to talk about how lonely I have become since Bailey left, it was that extra life and vitality that young people bring that I miss.

I don't want to talk about my sweetie and how difficult it was yesterday (Father's Day) to remember him before Alzheimer's took him and left an empty shell and how he used to say "I don't want anything except a little love and affection" when asked what he wanted for "Father's Day".  Me, on the other hand would have a list when it came to "Mother's Day" or birthday, or Christmas.

Tiny bouquet from backyard flowers

So my chin is dragging a wee bit and it's hot outside, and we could use another good rain. But I do have events coming that will help with that chin dragging.  This weekend beginning Thursday, "Out of Chicago" Photography event is scheduled. Way back in January when it first hit my email inbox I decided to take part and register. It was a healthy chunk of money but I told myself it was a belated Christmas present to myself. (I can always come up with some logical reason to spend money). So Thursday from 8-3 I am attending an all-day event with Bryan Peterson. On Friday I have a one-on-one with Matt Kloskowski to critique my photography (scary thought), a kick-off talk and an evening photowalk.  Saturday is filled with different classes from street photography to flower macro photography. Sunday is another photowalk and a couple of other classes. So. as I said this should bring my chin dragging up. I have never done anything like this, so it will be a new adventure.

The back porch

Eleanor Roosevelt said "Do one thing everyday that scares you." 
 I know I don't do something everyday that scares me, but this new adventure does. 

Until next time.....


24 comments:

  1. So sorry there's been heavy things on your mind and heart!
    I hope this coming week and the special, fun events are just what you need!

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  2. I have felt the same way.....honestly...yesterday was very difficult in different ways than yours. I needed to remind myself about purring on the full armor of God. Hmmmm, why didn't I think of that. I went into my yard for a short bit...scary, and I have to be grateful. Pacing myself. And I will pray for you.....photography is a gift.

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  3. Thought about you yesterday. xo

    Deanna, that photo workshop has me over the moon with envy! I can't wait to hear about it!!!!!

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  4. I cannot wait to hear how this weekend photo event goes - I'm a bit jealous that I am not participating, but will find contentment in living vicariously through your experience!

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  5. Deanna, your photos are always so beautiful and uplifting and inspiring! Thank you! I love seeing little vignettes of your home decor--so if you ever can't think what to take a photo of just walk around your house and give us a photo journal of all your beautiful decor! I wish I had photos of every nook and cranny of the home I grew up in...

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  6. Good for you. It will be a great event. Thank you too for being real. Life isn't all pretty pictures, there is a lot of pain and sorrow as well, not that we need to dwell on it, but I do think we need to acknowledge it.

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  7. Go into your new adventure with a smile and good attitude and all will be good! Have fun learning more about your passion.

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  8. A day-long workshop with Bryan Peterson should be wonderful! His book Learning to See Creatively is one of the few photography books I've held on to through several moves. Good for you for taking on this adventure. I hope you have a great time and it gives you a lasting lift.

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  9. Deanna, you should probably be teaching the seminar. Your photos are stunning, and they just keep getting better!

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  10. Deanna, this should be an amazing event.
    I think I've read every book that Bryan Peterson has written, and have taken 2 classes taught by him.
    He explains things so clearly, and is really a sweetheart.
    Enjoy every moment, and I hope you will tell us all about it here. :-)

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  11. Sounds like just what you need right now, Deanna! Life can really get the best of us sometimes, especially when we are feeling lonesome. Getting out to be with inspiring people is certain to give you a boost. I hope you have a great time and learn some amazing things! Hugs xo Karen

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  12. I'm sorry to hear that your chin is dragging a bit these last few days but this is an exciting venture ahead of you and one that I would love to be coming with you

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  13. I am sorry you have been a little low...the photography event sounds like it is just what the doctor ordered. :) A whole day with Bryan Peterson wow! I have one of his books on my coffee table right now. I hope you have a wonderful time.

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  14. You are so lucky to be able to take advantage of the Photo Walk with an expert to guide you. It should be invigorating. I live in a small town with no advantages like that. I love that you keep your blog real. We all have times when we don't have brilliant things to say or outstanding photos to show. Your blog is amazing and I love to learn from you.

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  15. You are so lucky to be able to take advantage of the Photo Walk with an expert to guide you. It should be invigorating. I live in a small town with no advantages like that. I love that you keep your blog real. We all have times when we don't have brilliant things to say or outstanding photos to show. Your blog is amazing and I love to learn from you.

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  16. I love your tiny bouquet of backyard flowers. I shall be very interested to read about your photography class with Bryan Peterson. You will certainly be learning a lot. How exciting! There are some things in our life which make us feel sad when we dwell on them and there are also some lovely events to be thankful for and to look forward to! All our lives are a mixture of happy and sad, high and low and we learn to balance things out as best we can. Have a wonderful Thursday!

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  17. You had me at Matt Kloskowski! What a dream adventure this will be for you and will surely be the antidote for your chin dragging. As Dotti said, so jealous! Sounds like a weekend we would all love and will be waiting not so patiently to hear all the details!

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  18. I admire you for taking the plunge! Can't wait to hear about your adventure and all you've learned. Must you prepare a portfolio? Have a great time - smile and enjoy every minute.

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  19. And it sounds like some "heart scare moments" for a few days in a row . . .
    How wonderful though Deanna . . . wait till they see your gems!
    Loved your tiny bouquet . . . right now, full blooms everywhere . . .
    One word from me as I think of you with your "sweet" and alzheimer realities . . . sad . . .
    Happy that flowers like the Annabelle's . . . bird songs . . . Matilda Mae visits . . .
    Bailey days . . . photographs . . . doggie cuddles . . . bring some smiles . . .

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  20. Deanna you are an amazing photographer already. I only wish my photos were 1/2 as good as yours are. I'm sure you will do extremely well with this new adventure and can't wait to see your photos. I wish there were someone that could teach me how to use my camera better. I need to check into some local classes or something.

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  21. Sending you a hug!! Your photography will get an A PLUS

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  22. I was so excited to read this! What an opportunity and good for your for taking the risk. You are fortunate to have the option. I know you will take full advantage of it and share with us all here. Like Terri I am a fan of Matt's. I have many of his videos and I love his personality. I only know Bryan Petersen by his books but he's stellar. You are probably finishing it up today. So happy for you...

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  23. My group of friends enjoys eating and trying lesser known beers, or the amazing cocktails all the time. This is the best place I know with the most perfect environment. It has become my favorite event venue Chicago over the last year.

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  24. Sorry for the belated response to your post. I can only imagine how empty the house is now without Bailey - the energy of having someone else around is energetic and therapeutic and it seems the emptiness gets filled with memories which are wonderful but can be sad at the same time. Your photo adventures are probably well placed 'out of the comfort zone' activity to shake things up.

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