11 Temmuz 2012 Çarşamba
10 Temmuz 2012 Salı
9 Temmuz 2012 Pazartesi
I'm happiest when...
To contact us Click HERE
I'm happiest when I take the time to read my scriptures, even when I think I won't get anything out of them.
I'm happiest when I say meaningful prayers and spend the time thinking about and thanking the Lord for my innumerable blessings.
I'm happiest when I'm driving to the temple, holding my husband's hand as we drive.
I'm happiest when I listen to all 8 hours of General Conference and then study each talk later when the transcripts are printed.
I'm happiest when I remember my Savior loves me and has suffered every pain and affliction so that my burdens can be lightened, my pains can be lessened, and my happiness can be deeper.
I'm a busy person and often times I think I will be happier if I just go to bed without reading my scriptures. Or that I can't possibly sit still long enough to listen to every talk from General Conference. But when I take the time to be still and let the Lord take control of my life a peace comes over me that I can never achieve by myself. I have seen the Lord's hand readily in my life recently and pray that as I continue to sacrifice MY will and obey HIS will that he will be able to mold me into a better Me. A happier me. A more peaceful me.
I'm happiest when I take the time to read my scriptures, even when I think I won't get anything out of them.
I'm happiest when I say meaningful prayers and spend the time thinking about and thanking the Lord for my innumerable blessings.
I'm happiest when I'm driving to the temple, holding my husband's hand as we drive.
I'm happiest when I listen to all 8 hours of General Conference and then study each talk later when the transcripts are printed.
I'm happiest when I remember my Savior loves me and has suffered every pain and affliction so that my burdens can be lightened, my pains can be lessened, and my happiness can be deeper.
I'm a busy person and often times I think I will be happier if I just go to bed without reading my scriptures. Or that I can't possibly sit still long enough to listen to every talk from General Conference. But when I take the time to be still and let the Lord take control of my life a peace comes over me that I can never achieve by myself. I have seen the Lord's hand readily in my life recently and pray that as I continue to sacrifice MY will and obey HIS will that he will be able to mold me into a better Me. A happier me. A more peaceful me.
Where's Waldo....
To contact us Click HERE
....or as the case may be, Where's Molly been?
I realize that I have not posted since my trip to Paris, which was over two months ago - and this week two very kind considerate bloggers took the time out of their own hectic lives to inquire if I was still alive: Alyce and Catherine thank you so much for checking on me.
Let's see if I can give a brief summary of these past several weeks:
I finally arrived home from France about 9:00PM on a Sunday night - and had to report back to school the following Friday at 8:30AM. I barely had time to recover from jet lag when I had to jump into lesson plans and literary analysis. For a variety of reasons - not the least of which include the economy and the necessity for the school to move for the third time in six years - our enrollment dropped about 30 percent. This created quite a bit of anxiety for me as I am paid by the student, not by the class. However, all has worked itself out financially, so no worries.
My goal this year is to complete most of my school work AT school - so that when I come home I am free to pursue personal interests. So far, I have been able to keep this promise. Well, at least as far as doing school work only at school. For some reason when I come home I have had little energy or interest in anything else but sitting on the couch. I have not picked up a book for pleasure reading since last spring - which is very unlike me and quite frankly, not conducive to the reputation of a book blogger. So I have chosen to hibernate and not post or read blogs as I felt rather unworthy of that privilege.
I wonder if perhaps my stressful spring - Mom's passing, the birth of my granddaughter, the high school graduation of my youngest, and the planning of my trip to Paris - finally caught up with me. Not only did it zap my energy and desires, but I think it also lowered my immunity. I rarely get sick, but I have had the same cold for the past two weeks: not sick enough to prevent me from teaching, but enough to keep me from doing anything else.
BUT...the weather is cooler now in Kansas City and the promise of a frost this week gives hope to those who suffer from allergies and cold-like symptoms. The fall colors and thoughts of holiday preparations always puts me in a great mood, and the start of NaNoWriMo in just two weeks has put a new spring in my step and desire in my heart. I plan to write a memoir of my Parisian trip - the thirty year wait for the adventure of a lifetime. And as luck would have it, Dave Fox is offering an online workshop on travel writing in January - which is perfect timing to help me revise this very rough draft.
While I have still not picked up a book for pleasure - I hope to do that soon. I truly missed participating in Carl's RIP challenge and the Dewey Fall Read-athon, but there is always next year. I have wanted to write for the Weekend Cooking segment, but quite frankly I have had nothing to contribute. This cooler weather, however, has sparked a new interest in cooking and an adventurous desire to find new recipes to test. Since Trader Joe's just recently opened in Kansas City, I am anxious to sample many of their tasty treats.
For those who followed my Paris journal, I finally resolved my camera's pesky dust problem, and I am anxious to take it out and capture some of the vivid fall leaves before they all wither and drop to the ground. I have also signed up for Susannah Conway's online course, Photo Mediations, which lasts through the first week of December - perfect timing to help me capture the fun of family holiday celebrations.
So yes....I am still here and am slowly making my way out of hibernation and acclimating myself again to the activities that give me great pleasure. I shall be visiting blogs again soon and look forward to reconnecting with many of my online friends. I have missed you all.
....or as the case may be, Where's Molly been?I realize that I have not posted since my trip to Paris, which was over two months ago - and this week two very kind considerate bloggers took the time out of their own hectic lives to inquire if I was still alive: Alyce and Catherine thank you so much for checking on me.
Let's see if I can give a brief summary of these past several weeks:
I finally arrived home from France about 9:00PM on a Sunday night - and had to report back to school the following Friday at 8:30AM. I barely had time to recover from jet lag when I had to jump into lesson plans and literary analysis. For a variety of reasons - not the least of which include the economy and the necessity for the school to move for the third time in six years - our enrollment dropped about 30 percent. This created quite a bit of anxiety for me as I am paid by the student, not by the class. However, all has worked itself out financially, so no worries.
My goal this year is to complete most of my school work AT school - so that when I come home I am free to pursue personal interests. So far, I have been able to keep this promise. Well, at least as far as doing school work only at school. For some reason when I come home I have had little energy or interest in anything else but sitting on the couch. I have not picked up a book for pleasure reading since last spring - which is very unlike me and quite frankly, not conducive to the reputation of a book blogger. So I have chosen to hibernate and not post or read blogs as I felt rather unworthy of that privilege.
 |
| Brynn at Pumpkin Patch October 15, 2011 |
BUT...the weather is cooler now in Kansas City and the promise of a frost this week gives hope to those who suffer from allergies and cold-like symptoms. The fall colors and thoughts of holiday preparations always puts me in a great mood, and the start of NaNoWriMo in just two weeks has put a new spring in my step and desire in my heart. I plan to write a memoir of my Parisian trip - the thirty year wait for the adventure of a lifetime. And as luck would have it, Dave Fox is offering an online workshop on travel writing in January - which is perfect timing to help me revise this very rough draft.
While I have still not picked up a book for pleasure - I hope to do that soon. I truly missed participating in Carl's RIP challenge and the Dewey Fall Read-athon, but there is always next year. I have wanted to write for the Weekend Cooking segment, but quite frankly I have had nothing to contribute. This cooler weather, however, has sparked a new interest in cooking and an adventurous desire to find new recipes to test. Since Trader Joe's just recently opened in Kansas City, I am anxious to sample many of their tasty treats.
 |
| The DUST - or as I like to refer to it: the black scarf of death |
So yes....I am still here and am slowly making my way out of hibernation and acclimating myself again to the activities that give me great pleasure. I shall be visiting blogs again soon and look forward to reconnecting with many of my online friends. I have missed you all.
It's Good to be Back!
To contact us Click HERE
I simply cannot tell you how right it feels to be blogging again --- and your kind and encouraging comments yesterday confirmed that decision. THANK YOU!
I gave a lot of thought to reinventing "my" blog --- starting from scratch with a new domain, new name, new focus. But in the end I decided that this blog is truly a reflection of me. Three years ago my primary focus in life, outside family of course, was teaching and reading. Period. I was a two dimensional character. But over these past three years I have not so much reinvented myself as I have discovered new aspects of me. The butterfly is still the caterpillar - just in a different state. I am still Molly, but in a new (and hopefully improved) way. This blog will reflect that inner transformation.
So I decided to give the blog a new look - a facelift, so to speak. I had maintained the same blog design for nearly two years and it signaled to me the bookishness of my personality. I thought it might be best to change the outer design to signal to others that this blog is different - the same, but different. I even changed my profile picture - from the one taken nearly seven years ago to one that I took myself on Halloween. I have recently cut my hair from shoulder length to chin length --- and my costume that day was an authentic French beret. Not really a costume, but more an inner connection with my Parisian love affair and desire to revisit that city on a regular basis. It is not the most flattering picture that I have ever taken, but it is significant.
I currently have many posts ideas rambling around in my head - but I have promised myself that I will not stress posting every day - or even on a more modified schedule. I will post when I have the time - and the material. And I will thoroughly enjoy every minute of it!
Happy December to you all.
I gave a lot of thought to reinventing "my" blog --- starting from scratch with a new domain, new name, new focus. But in the end I decided that this blog is truly a reflection of me. Three years ago my primary focus in life, outside family of course, was teaching and reading. Period. I was a two dimensional character. But over these past three years I have not so much reinvented myself as I have discovered new aspects of me. The butterfly is still the caterpillar - just in a different state. I am still Molly, but in a new (and hopefully improved) way. This blog will reflect that inner transformation.
So I decided to give the blog a new look - a facelift, so to speak. I had maintained the same blog design for nearly two years and it signaled to me the bookishness of my personality. I thought it might be best to change the outer design to signal to others that this blog is different - the same, but different. I even changed my profile picture - from the one taken nearly seven years ago to one that I took myself on Halloween. I have recently cut my hair from shoulder length to chin length --- and my costume that day was an authentic French beret. Not really a costume, but more an inner connection with my Parisian love affair and desire to revisit that city on a regular basis. It is not the most flattering picture that I have ever taken, but it is significant.
I currently have many posts ideas rambling around in my head - but I have promised myself that I will not stress posting every day - or even on a more modified schedule. I will post when I have the time - and the material. And I will thoroughly enjoy every minute of it!
Happy December to you all.
A Photo Assignment - third time's a charm?
To contact us Click HERE
I have spent a large part of this long weekend practicing photography. Yes, I finally got my head out of the books, took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather (Sunday = 55 degrees; Monday = 67 degrees!), and went for a photo shoot.
The assignment was to really spend time on one subject and photograph that subject from a varieties of different angles, perspective, etc. The first time I read the lesson, I interpreted "subject" in a broad sense. I decided that I would go to the local arboretum and photograph nature. While there was little floral vegetation, there were some variety of plant life and tranquil spots by the water. I took 242 pictures, of which I am willing to share three. Not great odds, but I did learn quite a bit about light and how the angle of the sun in relation to the subject can dramatically alter the mood of the picture. I learned to use my exposure compensation to help overcome my ineptitude of proper manual settings.
This is actually one of the first photos I took. I liked the way the sun provided the warm glow to these cat's tails. I had hoped to have the rocks a bit less in focus, so that the cat's tails would truly stand out, but my camera lens did not stop down far enough.
I experimented for quite some time with this subject, and in a couple of pictures I focused on just one of the stalks, but I thought this group of three made for a more cohesive shot.
This picture allowed me to play with depth of field a bit more. As I study it, however, I wish there was more of a contrast between the subject and the background. Oh well, I am definitely still learning.
After spending quite some time trying to take a picture of the rope bridge (to no avail) I looked behind me and noticed these benches next to the water. I thought it might be fun to take a picture of this spot in the middle of winter - and then return in six months and see how the tree has filled out and the grass has greened up.
While I don't think this is a spectacular photo (and I am sure many of you with far better composition techniques could give me a few pointers), I do like the idea that it could inspire a story. Who might walk into this setting and sit down by the water? A romantic couple? A lonely teen? A young mother with her newborn?
After this shoot I came home and read some of the message boards for the class. Apparently same subject meant, literally, the same subject. If I wanted to photograph flowers, then the same flower from a variety of perspectives, angles, etc. Of course, this makes more sense: if I am truly going to develop my eye for the beauty around me, I need to slow down and really see the beauty up close, far away, underneath, overhead, etc.
Ok -- so round two. We were encouraged to find a subject that evokes an emotional response from us - something that we find inspirational. Well, for me, that would be my dogs. So I went out to the backyard for about thirty minutes and took another 211 pictures (isn't it wonderful that we don't have to pay for the developing of film in this day and age?!). I tried to focus my attention on the newest member of the canine family, but it was impossible not to include the other three in this photo shoot. There was lots of sniffing......running....rough-housing.
In hindsight, this was not a great subject choice. Yes, they inspire me and bring me great joy. Yes, they are my most photographed subject by a margin of about 3:1 --- but to try for a variety of angles and perspectives is impossible. If I tried to sit on the ground, they were on top of me. If I tried to crouch in their face, they would attempt to lick the lens. It was definitely a humorous shoot, but not terribly productive for this assignment.
I did however find a couple of photos that are worth sharing....and again, I did learn a valuable lesson even if it wasn't the focus of this particular assignment. I learned that when photographing nature, I like to use Aperture Priority, as I prefer the control over depth of field. But when shooting dogs, particularly six month old puppies, Shutter Priority is the way to go. I set the shutter speed at 1/250 and the ISO to 200 (it was partially shaded), and I let the camera adjust the aperture accordingly.
So, I am wondering if perhaps I should try this assignment one more time. I am thinking of perhaps trying to photograph my nook - filled with shelves of books (my next favorite pastime to my dogs). Or perhaps I could photograph my car (now that would provide all kinds of angles for different perspectives) - or maybe my morning cup of coffee? I don't know....apparently developing my creative eye is going to take a bit longer than most.
I have spent a large part of this long weekend practicing photography. Yes, I finally got my head out of the books, took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather (Sunday = 55 degrees; Monday = 67 degrees!), and went for a photo shoot.The assignment was to really spend time on one subject and photograph that subject from a varieties of different angles, perspective, etc. The first time I read the lesson, I interpreted "subject" in a broad sense. I decided that I would go to the local arboretum and photograph nature. While there was little floral vegetation, there were some variety of plant life and tranquil spots by the water. I took 242 pictures, of which I am willing to share three. Not great odds, but I did learn quite a bit about light and how the angle of the sun in relation to the subject can dramatically alter the mood of the picture. I learned to use my exposure compensation to help overcome my ineptitude of proper manual settings.
This is actually one of the first photos I took. I liked the way the sun provided the warm glow to these cat's tails. I had hoped to have the rocks a bit less in focus, so that the cat's tails would truly stand out, but my camera lens did not stop down far enough.
I experimented for quite some time with this subject, and in a couple of pictures I focused on just one of the stalks, but I thought this group of three made for a more cohesive shot.
This picture allowed me to play with depth of field a bit more. As I study it, however, I wish there was more of a contrast between the subject and the background. Oh well, I am definitely still learning.After spending quite some time trying to take a picture of the rope bridge (to no avail) I looked behind me and noticed these benches next to the water. I thought it might be fun to take a picture of this spot in the middle of winter - and then return in six months and see how the tree has filled out and the grass has greened up.While I don't think this is a spectacular photo (and I am sure many of you with far better composition techniques could give me a few pointers), I do like the idea that it could inspire a story. Who might walk into this setting and sit down by the water? A romantic couple? A lonely teen? A young mother with her newborn?
After this shoot I came home and read some of the message boards for the class. Apparently same subject meant, literally, the same subject. If I wanted to photograph flowers, then the same flower from a variety of perspectives, angles, etc. Of course, this makes more sense: if I am truly going to develop my eye for the beauty around me, I need to slow down and really see the beauty up close, far away, underneath, overhead, etc.
 |
| Occasionally Jude has to show Feeny who's boss. |
In hindsight, this was not a great subject choice. Yes, they inspire me and bring me great joy. Yes, they are my most photographed subject by a margin of about 3:1 --- but to try for a variety of angles and perspectives is impossible. If I tried to sit on the ground, they were on top of me. If I tried to crouch in their face, they would attempt to lick the lens. It was definitely a humorous shoot, but not terribly productive for this assignment.
I did however find a couple of photos that are worth sharing....and again, I did learn a valuable lesson even if it wasn't the focus of this particular assignment. I learned that when photographing nature, I like to use Aperture Priority, as I prefer the control over depth of field. But when shooting dogs, particularly six month old puppies, Shutter Priority is the way to go. I set the shutter speed at 1/250 and the ISO to 200 (it was partially shaded), and I let the camera adjust the aperture accordingly.So, I am wondering if perhaps I should try this assignment one more time. I am thinking of perhaps trying to photograph my nook - filled with shelves of books (my next favorite pastime to my dogs). Or perhaps I could photograph my car (now that would provide all kinds of angles for different perspectives) - or maybe my morning cup of coffee? I don't know....apparently developing my creative eye is going to take a bit longer than most.
KUOW Hike of the Week- Crystal Peak
To contact us Click HERE
Updated July 10, 2012
Hike starts just east of Mt. Rainier and trailhead is off Highway 410 south of Crystal Mt. Cutoff.
Photo below is Mt. Rainier & White River
Check out Green Trails Maps for directions. Map for this week's trip is 209. Click link below for complete list of maps.http:// http://greentrailsmaps.com/maps/index_Map_wa/
Photo below less then 1/2 mile into hike, Rainier pokes out
Photo below is early in hike in forest and creek crossing
Snow crossing, maybe stop here @ 6000 feet, Should melt in 2 weeks
Photo below is from top of Crystal Peak view below of upper Crystal Lake
Hike starts just east of Mt. Rainier and trailhead is off Highway 410 south of Crystal Mt. Cutoff.
Photo below is Mt. Rainier & White River
Check out Green Trails Maps for directions. Map for this week's trip is 209. Click link below for complete list of maps.http:// http://greentrailsmaps.com/maps/index_Map_wa/
Photo below less then 1/2 mile into hike, Rainier pokes out
Photo below is early in hike in forest and creek crossing Snow crossing, maybe stop here @ 6000 feet, Should melt in 2 weeks Photo below is from top of Crystal Peak view below of upper Crystal Lake If you hike on Saturday June 14 after your hike check out Mt. Rainier Wine Festival at the Alpine Inn located at Crystal Mountain Resort. From 2 pm to 8 pm. Click link below for information.
http:// http://www.crystalhotels.com/mt-rainier-wine-festival/
After hike enjoy dining at the Summit House at Crystal Mountain Resort. Great views of Mt Rainier.
Click link below for information on the Summit House
http:// http://www.crystalhotels.com/mt-rainier-wine-festival/
Driving directions: From Seattle take Highway 410 and 4.5 miles past the Crystal Cutoff you can park on the right.
Trail Stats: 7 miles round trip and a 3000 foot gain. Good workout, you do not need to go all the way as there are good views
8 Temmuz 2012 Pazar
I'm happiest when...
To contact us Click HERE
I'm happiest when I take the time to read my scriptures, even when I think I won't get anything out of them.
I'm happiest when I say meaningful prayers and spend the time thinking about and thanking the Lord for my innumerable blessings.
I'm happiest when I'm driving to the temple, holding my husband's hand as we drive.
I'm happiest when I listen to all 8 hours of General Conference and then study each talk later when the transcripts are printed.
I'm happiest when I remember my Savior loves me and has suffered every pain and affliction so that my burdens can be lightened, my pains can be lessened, and my happiness can be deeper.
I'm a busy person and often times I think I will be happier if I just go to bed without reading my scriptures. Or that I can't possibly sit still long enough to listen to every talk from General Conference. But when I take the time to be still and let the Lord take control of my life a peace comes over me that I can never achieve by myself. I have seen the Lord's hand readily in my life recently and pray that as I continue to sacrifice MY will and obey HIS will that he will be able to mold me into a better Me. A happier me. A more peaceful me.
I'm happiest when I take the time to read my scriptures, even when I think I won't get anything out of them.
I'm happiest when I say meaningful prayers and spend the time thinking about and thanking the Lord for my innumerable blessings.
I'm happiest when I'm driving to the temple, holding my husband's hand as we drive.
I'm happiest when I listen to all 8 hours of General Conference and then study each talk later when the transcripts are printed.
I'm happiest when I remember my Savior loves me and has suffered every pain and affliction so that my burdens can be lightened, my pains can be lessened, and my happiness can be deeper.
I'm a busy person and often times I think I will be happier if I just go to bed without reading my scriptures. Or that I can't possibly sit still long enough to listen to every talk from General Conference. But when I take the time to be still and let the Lord take control of my life a peace comes over me that I can never achieve by myself. I have seen the Lord's hand readily in my life recently and pray that as I continue to sacrifice MY will and obey HIS will that he will be able to mold me into a better Me. A happier me. A more peaceful me.
What I did today
To contact us Click HERE
Kevin is on night shift at the moment so he was asleep all day. I took the opportunity to fill our freezer with ready-to-eat meals so I don't have to cook as often during the week. Here's what I made:
- Burrito Pie
- Funeral Potatoes (aka Nauvoo Potatoes, Cheesy Potatoes)
- Extra-Tangy Sourdough bread (this has been in the works for a couple days)
- Uncle Larry's meatloaf
- Tenny Muffins
Where's Waldo....
To contact us Click HERE
....or as the case may be, Where's Molly been?
I realize that I have not posted since my trip to Paris, which was over two months ago - and this week two very kind considerate bloggers took the time out of their own hectic lives to inquire if I was still alive: Alyce and Catherine thank you so much for checking on me.
Let's see if I can give a brief summary of these past several weeks:
I finally arrived home from France about 9:00PM on a Sunday night - and had to report back to school the following Friday at 8:30AM. I barely had time to recover from jet lag when I had to jump into lesson plans and literary analysis. For a variety of reasons - not the least of which include the economy and the necessity for the school to move for the third time in six years - our enrollment dropped about 30 percent. This created quite a bit of anxiety for me as I am paid by the student, not by the class. However, all has worked itself out financially, so no worries.
My goal this year is to complete most of my school work AT school - so that when I come home I am free to pursue personal interests. So far, I have been able to keep this promise. Well, at least as far as doing school work only at school. For some reason when I come home I have had little energy or interest in anything else but sitting on the couch. I have not picked up a book for pleasure reading since last spring - which is very unlike me and quite frankly, not conducive to the reputation of a book blogger. So I have chosen to hibernate and not post or read blogs as I felt rather unworthy of that privilege.
I wonder if perhaps my stressful spring - Mom's passing, the birth of my granddaughter, the high school graduation of my youngest, and the planning of my trip to Paris - finally caught up with me. Not only did it zap my energy and desires, but I think it also lowered my immunity. I rarely get sick, but I have had the same cold for the past two weeks: not sick enough to prevent me from teaching, but enough to keep me from doing anything else.
BUT...the weather is cooler now in Kansas City and the promise of a frost this week gives hope to those who suffer from allergies and cold-like symptoms. The fall colors and thoughts of holiday preparations always puts me in a great mood, and the start of NaNoWriMo in just two weeks has put a new spring in my step and desire in my heart. I plan to write a memoir of my Parisian trip - the thirty year wait for the adventure of a lifetime. And as luck would have it, Dave Fox is offering an online workshop on travel writing in January - which is perfect timing to help me revise this very rough draft.
While I have still not picked up a book for pleasure - I hope to do that soon. I truly missed participating in Carl's RIP challenge and the Dewey Fall Read-athon, but there is always next year. I have wanted to write for the Weekend Cooking segment, but quite frankly I have had nothing to contribute. This cooler weather, however, has sparked a new interest in cooking and an adventurous desire to find new recipes to test. Since Trader Joe's just recently opened in Kansas City, I am anxious to sample many of their tasty treats.
For those who followed my Paris journal, I finally resolved my camera's pesky dust problem, and I am anxious to take it out and capture some of the vivid fall leaves before they all wither and drop to the ground. I have also signed up for Susannah Conway's online course, Photo Mediations, which lasts through the first week of December - perfect timing to help me capture the fun of family holiday celebrations.
So yes....I am still here and am slowly making my way out of hibernation and acclimating myself again to the activities that give me great pleasure. I shall be visiting blogs again soon and look forward to reconnecting with many of my online friends. I have missed you all.
....or as the case may be, Where's Molly been?I realize that I have not posted since my trip to Paris, which was over two months ago - and this week two very kind considerate bloggers took the time out of their own hectic lives to inquire if I was still alive: Alyce and Catherine thank you so much for checking on me.
Let's see if I can give a brief summary of these past several weeks:
I finally arrived home from France about 9:00PM on a Sunday night - and had to report back to school the following Friday at 8:30AM. I barely had time to recover from jet lag when I had to jump into lesson plans and literary analysis. For a variety of reasons - not the least of which include the economy and the necessity for the school to move for the third time in six years - our enrollment dropped about 30 percent. This created quite a bit of anxiety for me as I am paid by the student, not by the class. However, all has worked itself out financially, so no worries.
My goal this year is to complete most of my school work AT school - so that when I come home I am free to pursue personal interests. So far, I have been able to keep this promise. Well, at least as far as doing school work only at school. For some reason when I come home I have had little energy or interest in anything else but sitting on the couch. I have not picked up a book for pleasure reading since last spring - which is very unlike me and quite frankly, not conducive to the reputation of a book blogger. So I have chosen to hibernate and not post or read blogs as I felt rather unworthy of that privilege.
|
| Brynn at Pumpkin Patch October 15, 2011 |
BUT...the weather is cooler now in Kansas City and the promise of a frost this week gives hope to those who suffer from allergies and cold-like symptoms. The fall colors and thoughts of holiday preparations always puts me in a great mood, and the start of NaNoWriMo in just two weeks has put a new spring in my step and desire in my heart. I plan to write a memoir of my Parisian trip - the thirty year wait for the adventure of a lifetime. And as luck would have it, Dave Fox is offering an online workshop on travel writing in January - which is perfect timing to help me revise this very rough draft.
While I have still not picked up a book for pleasure - I hope to do that soon. I truly missed participating in Carl's RIP challenge and the Dewey Fall Read-athon, but there is always next year. I have wanted to write for the Weekend Cooking segment, but quite frankly I have had nothing to contribute. This cooler weather, however, has sparked a new interest in cooking and an adventurous desire to find new recipes to test. Since Trader Joe's just recently opened in Kansas City, I am anxious to sample many of their tasty treats.
|
| The DUST - or as I like to refer to it: the black scarf of death |
So yes....I am still here and am slowly making my way out of hibernation and acclimating myself again to the activities that give me great pleasure. I shall be visiting blogs again soon and look forward to reconnecting with many of my online friends. I have missed you all.
It's Good to be Back!
To contact us Click HERE
I simply cannot tell you how right it feels to be blogging again --- and your kind and encouraging comments yesterday confirmed that decision. THANK YOU!
I gave a lot of thought to reinventing "my" blog --- starting from scratch with a new domain, new name, new focus. But in the end I decided that this blog is truly a reflection of me. Three years ago my primary focus in life, outside family of course, was teaching and reading. Period. I was a two dimensional character. But over these past three years I have not so much reinvented myself as I have discovered new aspects of me. The butterfly is still the caterpillar - just in a different state. I am still Molly, but in a new (and hopefully improved) way. This blog will reflect that inner transformation.
So I decided to give the blog a new look - a facelift, so to speak. I had maintained the same blog design for nearly two years and it signaled to me the bookishness of my personality. I thought it might be best to change the outer design to signal to others that this blog is different - the same, but different. I even changed my profile picture - from the one taken nearly seven years ago to one that I took myself on Halloween. I have recently cut my hair from shoulder length to chin length --- and my costume that day was an authentic French beret. Not really a costume, but more an inner connection with my Parisian love affair and desire to revisit that city on a regular basis. It is not the most flattering picture that I have ever taken, but it is significant.
I currently have many posts ideas rambling around in my head - but I have promised myself that I will not stress posting every day - or even on a more modified schedule. I will post when I have the time - and the material. And I will thoroughly enjoy every minute of it!
Happy December to you all.
I gave a lot of thought to reinventing "my" blog --- starting from scratch with a new domain, new name, new focus. But in the end I decided that this blog is truly a reflection of me. Three years ago my primary focus in life, outside family of course, was teaching and reading. Period. I was a two dimensional character. But over these past three years I have not so much reinvented myself as I have discovered new aspects of me. The butterfly is still the caterpillar - just in a different state. I am still Molly, but in a new (and hopefully improved) way. This blog will reflect that inner transformation.
So I decided to give the blog a new look - a facelift, so to speak. I had maintained the same blog design for nearly two years and it signaled to me the bookishness of my personality. I thought it might be best to change the outer design to signal to others that this blog is different - the same, but different. I even changed my profile picture - from the one taken nearly seven years ago to one that I took myself on Halloween. I have recently cut my hair from shoulder length to chin length --- and my costume that day was an authentic French beret. Not really a costume, but more an inner connection with my Parisian love affair and desire to revisit that city on a regular basis. It is not the most flattering picture that I have ever taken, but it is significant.
I currently have many posts ideas rambling around in my head - but I have promised myself that I will not stress posting every day - or even on a more modified schedule. I will post when I have the time - and the material. And I will thoroughly enjoy every minute of it!
Happy December to you all.
A Photo Assignment - third time's a charm?
To contact us Click HERE
I have spent a large part of this long weekend practicing photography. Yes, I finally got my head out of the books, took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather (Sunday = 55 degrees; Monday = 67 degrees!), and went for a photo shoot.
The assignment was to really spend time on one subject and photograph that subject from a varieties of different angles, perspective, etc. The first time I read the lesson, I interpreted "subject" in a broad sense. I decided that I would go to the local arboretum and photograph nature. While there was little floral vegetation, there were some variety of plant life and tranquil spots by the water. I took 242 pictures, of which I am willing to share three. Not great odds, but I did learn quite a bit about light and how the angle of the sun in relation to the subject can dramatically alter the mood of the picture. I learned to use my exposure compensation to help overcome my ineptitude of proper manual settings.
This is actually one of the first photos I took. I liked the way the sun provided the warm glow to these cat's tails. I had hoped to have the rocks a bit less in focus, so that the cat's tails would truly stand out, but my camera lens did not stop down far enough.
I experimented for quite some time with this subject, and in a couple of pictures I focused on just one of the stalks, but I thought this group of three made for a more cohesive shot.
This picture allowed me to play with depth of field a bit more. As I study it, however, I wish there was more of a contrast between the subject and the background. Oh well, I am definitely still learning.
After spending quite some time trying to take a picture of the rope bridge (to no avail) I looked behind me and noticed these benches next to the water. I thought it might be fun to take a picture of this spot in the middle of winter - and then return in six months and see how the tree has filled out and the grass has greened up.
While I don't think this is a spectacular photo (and I am sure many of you with far better composition techniques could give me a few pointers), I do like the idea that it could inspire a story. Who might walk into this setting and sit down by the water? A romantic couple? A lonely teen? A young mother with her newborn?
After this shoot I came home and read some of the message boards for the class. Apparently same subject meant, literally, the same subject. If I wanted to photograph flowers, then the same flower from a variety of perspectives, angles, etc. Of course, this makes more sense: if I am truly going to develop my eye for the beauty around me, I need to slow down and really see the beauty up close, far away, underneath, overhead, etc.
Ok -- so round two. We were encouraged to find a subject that evokes an emotional response from us - something that we find inspirational. Well, for me, that would be my dogs. So I went out to the backyard for about thirty minutes and took another 211 pictures (isn't it wonderful that we don't have to pay for the developing of film in this day and age?!). I tried to focus my attention on the newest member of the canine family, but it was impossible not to include the other three in this photo shoot. There was lots of sniffing......running....rough-housing.
In hindsight, this was not a great subject choice. Yes, they inspire me and bring me great joy. Yes, they are my most photographed subject by a margin of about 3:1 --- but to try for a variety of angles and perspectives is impossible. If I tried to sit on the ground, they were on top of me. If I tried to crouch in their face, they would attempt to lick the lens. It was definitely a humorous shoot, but not terribly productive for this assignment.
I did however find a couple of photos that are worth sharing....and again, I did learn a valuable lesson even if it wasn't the focus of this particular assignment. I learned that when photographing nature, I like to use Aperture Priority, as I prefer the control over depth of field. But when shooting dogs, particularly six month old puppies, Shutter Priority is the way to go. I set the shutter speed at 1/250 and the ISO to 200 (it was partially shaded), and I let the camera adjust the aperture accordingly.
So, I am wondering if perhaps I should try this assignment one more time. I am thinking of perhaps trying to photograph my nook - filled with shelves of books (my next favorite pastime to my dogs). Or perhaps I could photograph my car (now that would provide all kinds of angles for different perspectives) - or maybe my morning cup of coffee? I don't know....apparently developing my creative eye is going to take a bit longer than most.
I have spent a large part of this long weekend practicing photography. Yes, I finally got my head out of the books, took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather (Sunday = 55 degrees; Monday = 67 degrees!), and went for a photo shoot.The assignment was to really spend time on one subject and photograph that subject from a varieties of different angles, perspective, etc. The first time I read the lesson, I interpreted "subject" in a broad sense. I decided that I would go to the local arboretum and photograph nature. While there was little floral vegetation, there were some variety of plant life and tranquil spots by the water. I took 242 pictures, of which I am willing to share three. Not great odds, but I did learn quite a bit about light and how the angle of the sun in relation to the subject can dramatically alter the mood of the picture. I learned to use my exposure compensation to help overcome my ineptitude of proper manual settings.
This is actually one of the first photos I took. I liked the way the sun provided the warm glow to these cat's tails. I had hoped to have the rocks a bit less in focus, so that the cat's tails would truly stand out, but my camera lens did not stop down far enough.
I experimented for quite some time with this subject, and in a couple of pictures I focused on just one of the stalks, but I thought this group of three made for a more cohesive shot.
This picture allowed me to play with depth of field a bit more. As I study it, however, I wish there was more of a contrast between the subject and the background. Oh well, I am definitely still learning.After spending quite some time trying to take a picture of the rope bridge (to no avail) I looked behind me and noticed these benches next to the water. I thought it might be fun to take a picture of this spot in the middle of winter - and then return in six months and see how the tree has filled out and the grass has greened up.While I don't think this is a spectacular photo (and I am sure many of you with far better composition techniques could give me a few pointers), I do like the idea that it could inspire a story. Who might walk into this setting and sit down by the water? A romantic couple? A lonely teen? A young mother with her newborn?
After this shoot I came home and read some of the message boards for the class. Apparently same subject meant, literally, the same subject. If I wanted to photograph flowers, then the same flower from a variety of perspectives, angles, etc. Of course, this makes more sense: if I am truly going to develop my eye for the beauty around me, I need to slow down and really see the beauty up close, far away, underneath, overhead, etc.
|
| Occasionally Jude has to show Feeny who's boss. |
In hindsight, this was not a great subject choice. Yes, they inspire me and bring me great joy. Yes, they are my most photographed subject by a margin of about 3:1 --- but to try for a variety of angles and perspectives is impossible. If I tried to sit on the ground, they were on top of me. If I tried to crouch in their face, they would attempt to lick the lens. It was definitely a humorous shoot, but not terribly productive for this assignment.
I did however find a couple of photos that are worth sharing....and again, I did learn a valuable lesson even if it wasn't the focus of this particular assignment. I learned that when photographing nature, I like to use Aperture Priority, as I prefer the control over depth of field. But when shooting dogs, particularly six month old puppies, Shutter Priority is the way to go. I set the shutter speed at 1/250 and the ISO to 200 (it was partially shaded), and I let the camera adjust the aperture accordingly.So, I am wondering if perhaps I should try this assignment one more time. I am thinking of perhaps trying to photograph my nook - filled with shelves of books (my next favorite pastime to my dogs). Or perhaps I could photograph my car (now that would provide all kinds of angles for different perspectives) - or maybe my morning cup of coffee? I don't know....apparently developing my creative eye is going to take a bit longer than most.
7 Temmuz 2012 Cumartesi
I'm being responsible...
To contact us Click HERE
It's 60 degrees outside and I'm sitting inside on the couch studying for my Life and Health Agent exam, which is Monday afternoon.
And further making me restless is knowing that Kevin is outside hiking, having a good time in the warmth and sunshine. He was sweet enough to offer to stay and help me study (and he really would have). But I've never known how to have someone help me study. And it does help me focus better with him not being here.
So here's to me being responsible.
(But I'm smiling because I can hear my neighbor singing to her two-year old "Singing in the Rain" and the two-year old is singing back her own version of it. That's right, start them off with show tunes young and they will grow to love them!)
And further making me restless is knowing that Kevin is outside hiking, having a good time in the warmth and sunshine. He was sweet enough to offer to stay and help me study (and he really would have). But I've never known how to have someone help me study. And it does help me focus better with him not being here.
So here's to me being responsible.
(But I'm smiling because I can hear my neighbor singing to her two-year old "Singing in the Rain" and the two-year old is singing back her own version of it. That's right, start them off with show tunes young and they will grow to love them!)
I'm happiest when...
To contact us Click HERE
I'm happiest when I take the time to read my scriptures, even when I think I won't get anything out of them.
I'm happiest when I say meaningful prayers and spend the time thinking about and thanking the Lord for my innumerable blessings.
I'm happiest when I'm driving to the temple, holding my husband's hand as we drive.
I'm happiest when I listen to all 8 hours of General Conference and then study each talk later when the transcripts are printed.
I'm happiest when I remember my Savior loves me and has suffered every pain and affliction so that my burdens can be lightened, my pains can be lessened, and my happiness can be deeper.
I'm a busy person and often times I think I will be happier if I just go to bed without reading my scriptures. Or that I can't possibly sit still long enough to listen to every talk from General Conference. But when I take the time to be still and let the Lord take control of my life a peace comes over me that I can never achieve by myself. I have seen the Lord's hand readily in my life recently and pray that as I continue to sacrifice MY will and obey HIS will that he will be able to mold me into a better Me. A happier me. A more peaceful me.
I'm happiest when I take the time to read my scriptures, even when I think I won't get anything out of them.
I'm happiest when I say meaningful prayers and spend the time thinking about and thanking the Lord for my innumerable blessings.
I'm happiest when I'm driving to the temple, holding my husband's hand as we drive.
I'm happiest when I listen to all 8 hours of General Conference and then study each talk later when the transcripts are printed.
I'm happiest when I remember my Savior loves me and has suffered every pain and affliction so that my burdens can be lightened, my pains can be lessened, and my happiness can be deeper.
I'm a busy person and often times I think I will be happier if I just go to bed without reading my scriptures. Or that I can't possibly sit still long enough to listen to every talk from General Conference. But when I take the time to be still and let the Lord take control of my life a peace comes over me that I can never achieve by myself. I have seen the Lord's hand readily in my life recently and pray that as I continue to sacrifice MY will and obey HIS will that he will be able to mold me into a better Me. A happier me. A more peaceful me.
Where's Waldo....
To contact us Click HERE
....or as the case may be, Where's Molly been?
I realize that I have not posted since my trip to Paris, which was over two months ago - and this week two very kind considerate bloggers took the time out of their own hectic lives to inquire if I was still alive: Alyce and Catherine thank you so much for checking on me.
Let's see if I can give a brief summary of these past several weeks:
I finally arrived home from France about 9:00PM on a Sunday night - and had to report back to school the following Friday at 8:30AM. I barely had time to recover from jet lag when I had to jump into lesson plans and literary analysis. For a variety of reasons - not the least of which include the economy and the necessity for the school to move for the third time in six years - our enrollment dropped about 30 percent. This created quite a bit of anxiety for me as I am paid by the student, not by the class. However, all has worked itself out financially, so no worries.
My goal this year is to complete most of my school work AT school - so that when I come home I am free to pursue personal interests. So far, I have been able to keep this promise. Well, at least as far as doing school work only at school. For some reason when I come home I have had little energy or interest in anything else but sitting on the couch. I have not picked up a book for pleasure reading since last spring - which is very unlike me and quite frankly, not conducive to the reputation of a book blogger. So I have chosen to hibernate and not post or read blogs as I felt rather unworthy of that privilege.
I wonder if perhaps my stressful spring - Mom's passing, the birth of my granddaughter, the high school graduation of my youngest, and the planning of my trip to Paris - finally caught up with me. Not only did it zap my energy and desires, but I think it also lowered my immunity. I rarely get sick, but I have had the same cold for the past two weeks: not sick enough to prevent me from teaching, but enough to keep me from doing anything else.
BUT...the weather is cooler now in Kansas City and the promise of a frost this week gives hope to those who suffer from allergies and cold-like symptoms. The fall colors and thoughts of holiday preparations always puts me in a great mood, and the start of NaNoWriMo in just two weeks has put a new spring in my step and desire in my heart. I plan to write a memoir of my Parisian trip - the thirty year wait for the adventure of a lifetime. And as luck would have it, Dave Fox is offering an online workshop on travel writing in January - which is perfect timing to help me revise this very rough draft.
While I have still not picked up a book for pleasure - I hope to do that soon. I truly missed participating in Carl's RIP challenge and the Dewey Fall Read-athon, but there is always next year. I have wanted to write for the Weekend Cooking segment, but quite frankly I have had nothing to contribute. This cooler weather, however, has sparked a new interest in cooking and an adventurous desire to find new recipes to test. Since Trader Joe's just recently opened in Kansas City, I am anxious to sample many of their tasty treats.
For those who followed my Paris journal, I finally resolved my camera's pesky dust problem, and I am anxious to take it out and capture some of the vivid fall leaves before they all wither and drop to the ground. I have also signed up for Susannah Conway's online course, Photo Mediations, which lasts through the first week of December - perfect timing to help me capture the fun of family holiday celebrations.
So yes....I am still here and am slowly making my way out of hibernation and acclimating myself again to the activities that give me great pleasure. I shall be visiting blogs again soon and look forward to reconnecting with many of my online friends. I have missed you all.
....or as the case may be, Where's Molly been?I realize that I have not posted since my trip to Paris, which was over two months ago - and this week two very kind considerate bloggers took the time out of their own hectic lives to inquire if I was still alive: Alyce and Catherine thank you so much for checking on me.
Let's see if I can give a brief summary of these past several weeks:
I finally arrived home from France about 9:00PM on a Sunday night - and had to report back to school the following Friday at 8:30AM. I barely had time to recover from jet lag when I had to jump into lesson plans and literary analysis. For a variety of reasons - not the least of which include the economy and the necessity for the school to move for the third time in six years - our enrollment dropped about 30 percent. This created quite a bit of anxiety for me as I am paid by the student, not by the class. However, all has worked itself out financially, so no worries.
My goal this year is to complete most of my school work AT school - so that when I come home I am free to pursue personal interests. So far, I have been able to keep this promise. Well, at least as far as doing school work only at school. For some reason when I come home I have had little energy or interest in anything else but sitting on the couch. I have not picked up a book for pleasure reading since last spring - which is very unlike me and quite frankly, not conducive to the reputation of a book blogger. So I have chosen to hibernate and not post or read blogs as I felt rather unworthy of that privilege.
|
| Brynn at Pumpkin Patch October 15, 2011 |
BUT...the weather is cooler now in Kansas City and the promise of a frost this week gives hope to those who suffer from allergies and cold-like symptoms. The fall colors and thoughts of holiday preparations always puts me in a great mood, and the start of NaNoWriMo in just two weeks has put a new spring in my step and desire in my heart. I plan to write a memoir of my Parisian trip - the thirty year wait for the adventure of a lifetime. And as luck would have it, Dave Fox is offering an online workshop on travel writing in January - which is perfect timing to help me revise this very rough draft.
While I have still not picked up a book for pleasure - I hope to do that soon. I truly missed participating in Carl's RIP challenge and the Dewey Fall Read-athon, but there is always next year. I have wanted to write for the Weekend Cooking segment, but quite frankly I have had nothing to contribute. This cooler weather, however, has sparked a new interest in cooking and an adventurous desire to find new recipes to test. Since Trader Joe's just recently opened in Kansas City, I am anxious to sample many of their tasty treats.
|
| The DUST - or as I like to refer to it: the black scarf of death |
So yes....I am still here and am slowly making my way out of hibernation and acclimating myself again to the activities that give me great pleasure. I shall be visiting blogs again soon and look forward to reconnecting with many of my online friends. I have missed you all.
It's Good to be Back!
To contact us Click HERE
I simply cannot tell you how right it feels to be blogging again --- and your kind and encouraging comments yesterday confirmed that decision. THANK YOU!
I gave a lot of thought to reinventing "my" blog --- starting from scratch with a new domain, new name, new focus. But in the end I decided that this blog is truly a reflection of me. Three years ago my primary focus in life, outside family of course, was teaching and reading. Period. I was a two dimensional character. But over these past three years I have not so much reinvented myself as I have discovered new aspects of me. The butterfly is still the caterpillar - just in a different state. I am still Molly, but in a new (and hopefully improved) way. This blog will reflect that inner transformation.
So I decided to give the blog a new look - a facelift, so to speak. I had maintained the same blog design for nearly two years and it signaled to me the bookishness of my personality. I thought it might be best to change the outer design to signal to others that this blog is different - the same, but different. I even changed my profile picture - from the one taken nearly seven years ago to one that I took myself on Halloween. I have recently cut my hair from shoulder length to chin length --- and my costume that day was an authentic French beret. Not really a costume, but more an inner connection with my Parisian love affair and desire to revisit that city on a regular basis. It is not the most flattering picture that I have ever taken, but it is significant.
I currently have many posts ideas rambling around in my head - but I have promised myself that I will not stress posting every day - or even on a more modified schedule. I will post when I have the time - and the material. And I will thoroughly enjoy every minute of it!
Happy December to you all.
I gave a lot of thought to reinventing "my" blog --- starting from scratch with a new domain, new name, new focus. But in the end I decided that this blog is truly a reflection of me. Three years ago my primary focus in life, outside family of course, was teaching and reading. Period. I was a two dimensional character. But over these past three years I have not so much reinvented myself as I have discovered new aspects of me. The butterfly is still the caterpillar - just in a different state. I am still Molly, but in a new (and hopefully improved) way. This blog will reflect that inner transformation.
So I decided to give the blog a new look - a facelift, so to speak. I had maintained the same blog design for nearly two years and it signaled to me the bookishness of my personality. I thought it might be best to change the outer design to signal to others that this blog is different - the same, but different. I even changed my profile picture - from the one taken nearly seven years ago to one that I took myself on Halloween. I have recently cut my hair from shoulder length to chin length --- and my costume that day was an authentic French beret. Not really a costume, but more an inner connection with my Parisian love affair and desire to revisit that city on a regular basis. It is not the most flattering picture that I have ever taken, but it is significant.
I currently have many posts ideas rambling around in my head - but I have promised myself that I will not stress posting every day - or even on a more modified schedule. I will post when I have the time - and the material. And I will thoroughly enjoy every minute of it!
Happy December to you all.
A Photo Assignment - third time's a charm?
To contact us Click HERE
I have spent a large part of this long weekend practicing photography. Yes, I finally got my head out of the books, took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather (Sunday = 55 degrees; Monday = 67 degrees!), and went for a photo shoot.
The assignment was to really spend time on one subject and photograph that subject from a varieties of different angles, perspective, etc. The first time I read the lesson, I interpreted "subject" in a broad sense. I decided that I would go to the local arboretum and photograph nature. While there was little floral vegetation, there were some variety of plant life and tranquil spots by the water. I took 242 pictures, of which I am willing to share three. Not great odds, but I did learn quite a bit about light and how the angle of the sun in relation to the subject can dramatically alter the mood of the picture. I learned to use my exposure compensation to help overcome my ineptitude of proper manual settings.
This is actually one of the first photos I took. I liked the way the sun provided the warm glow to these cat's tails. I had hoped to have the rocks a bit less in focus, so that the cat's tails would truly stand out, but my camera lens did not stop down far enough.
I experimented for quite some time with this subject, and in a couple of pictures I focused on just one of the stalks, but I thought this group of three made for a more cohesive shot.
This picture allowed me to play with depth of field a bit more. As I study it, however, I wish there was more of a contrast between the subject and the background. Oh well, I am definitely still learning.
After spending quite some time trying to take a picture of the rope bridge (to no avail) I looked behind me and noticed these benches next to the water. I thought it might be fun to take a picture of this spot in the middle of winter - and then return in six months and see how the tree has filled out and the grass has greened up.
While I don't think this is a spectacular photo (and I am sure many of you with far better composition techniques could give me a few pointers), I do like the idea that it could inspire a story. Who might walk into this setting and sit down by the water? A romantic couple? A lonely teen? A young mother with her newborn?
After this shoot I came home and read some of the message boards for the class. Apparently same subject meant, literally, the same subject. If I wanted to photograph flowers, then the same flower from a variety of perspectives, angles, etc. Of course, this makes more sense: if I am truly going to develop my eye for the beauty around me, I need to slow down and really see the beauty up close, far away, underneath, overhead, etc.
Ok -- so round two. We were encouraged to find a subject that evokes an emotional response from us - something that we find inspirational. Well, for me, that would be my dogs. So I went out to the backyard for about thirty minutes and took another 211 pictures (isn't it wonderful that we don't have to pay for the developing of film in this day and age?!). I tried to focus my attention on the newest member of the canine family, but it was impossible not to include the other three in this photo shoot. There was lots of sniffing......running....rough-housing.
In hindsight, this was not a great subject choice. Yes, they inspire me and bring me great joy. Yes, they are my most photographed subject by a margin of about 3:1 --- but to try for a variety of angles and perspectives is impossible. If I tried to sit on the ground, they were on top of me. If I tried to crouch in their face, they would attempt to lick the lens. It was definitely a humorous shoot, but not terribly productive for this assignment.
I did however find a couple of photos that are worth sharing....and again, I did learn a valuable lesson even if it wasn't the focus of this particular assignment. I learned that when photographing nature, I like to use Aperture Priority, as I prefer the control over depth of field. But when shooting dogs, particularly six month old puppies, Shutter Priority is the way to go. I set the shutter speed at 1/250 and the ISO to 200 (it was partially shaded), and I let the camera adjust the aperture accordingly.
So, I am wondering if perhaps I should try this assignment one more time. I am thinking of perhaps trying to photograph my nook - filled with shelves of books (my next favorite pastime to my dogs). Or perhaps I could photograph my car (now that would provide all kinds of angles for different perspectives) - or maybe my morning cup of coffee? I don't know....apparently developing my creative eye is going to take a bit longer than most.
I have spent a large part of this long weekend practicing photography. Yes, I finally got my head out of the books, took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather (Sunday = 55 degrees; Monday = 67 degrees!), and went for a photo shoot.The assignment was to really spend time on one subject and photograph that subject from a varieties of different angles, perspective, etc. The first time I read the lesson, I interpreted "subject" in a broad sense. I decided that I would go to the local arboretum and photograph nature. While there was little floral vegetation, there were some variety of plant life and tranquil spots by the water. I took 242 pictures, of which I am willing to share three. Not great odds, but I did learn quite a bit about light and how the angle of the sun in relation to the subject can dramatically alter the mood of the picture. I learned to use my exposure compensation to help overcome my ineptitude of proper manual settings.
This is actually one of the first photos I took. I liked the way the sun provided the warm glow to these cat's tails. I had hoped to have the rocks a bit less in focus, so that the cat's tails would truly stand out, but my camera lens did not stop down far enough.
I experimented for quite some time with this subject, and in a couple of pictures I focused on just one of the stalks, but I thought this group of three made for a more cohesive shot.
This picture allowed me to play with depth of field a bit more. As I study it, however, I wish there was more of a contrast between the subject and the background. Oh well, I am definitely still learning.After spending quite some time trying to take a picture of the rope bridge (to no avail) I looked behind me and noticed these benches next to the water. I thought it might be fun to take a picture of this spot in the middle of winter - and then return in six months and see how the tree has filled out and the grass has greened up.While I don't think this is a spectacular photo (and I am sure many of you with far better composition techniques could give me a few pointers), I do like the idea that it could inspire a story. Who might walk into this setting and sit down by the water? A romantic couple? A lonely teen? A young mother with her newborn?
After this shoot I came home and read some of the message boards for the class. Apparently same subject meant, literally, the same subject. If I wanted to photograph flowers, then the same flower from a variety of perspectives, angles, etc. Of course, this makes more sense: if I am truly going to develop my eye for the beauty around me, I need to slow down and really see the beauty up close, far away, underneath, overhead, etc.
|
| Occasionally Jude has to show Feeny who's boss. |
In hindsight, this was not a great subject choice. Yes, they inspire me and bring me great joy. Yes, they are my most photographed subject by a margin of about 3:1 --- but to try for a variety of angles and perspectives is impossible. If I tried to sit on the ground, they were on top of me. If I tried to crouch in their face, they would attempt to lick the lens. It was definitely a humorous shoot, but not terribly productive for this assignment.
I did however find a couple of photos that are worth sharing....and again, I did learn a valuable lesson even if it wasn't the focus of this particular assignment. I learned that when photographing nature, I like to use Aperture Priority, as I prefer the control over depth of field. But when shooting dogs, particularly six month old puppies, Shutter Priority is the way to go. I set the shutter speed at 1/250 and the ISO to 200 (it was partially shaded), and I let the camera adjust the aperture accordingly.So, I am wondering if perhaps I should try this assignment one more time. I am thinking of perhaps trying to photograph my nook - filled with shelves of books (my next favorite pastime to my dogs). Or perhaps I could photograph my car (now that would provide all kinds of angles for different perspectives) - or maybe my morning cup of coffee? I don't know....apparently developing my creative eye is going to take a bit longer than most.
5 Temmuz 2012 Perşembe
It's Good to be Back!
To contact us Click HERE
I simply cannot tell you how right it feels to be blogging again --- and your kind and encouraging comments yesterday confirmed that decision. THANK YOU!
I gave a lot of thought to reinventing "my" blog --- starting from scratch with a new domain, new name, new focus. But in the end I decided that this blog is truly a reflection of me. Three years ago my primary focus in life, outside family of course, was teaching and reading. Period. I was a two dimensional character. But over these past three years I have not so much reinvented myself as I have discovered new aspects of me. The butterfly is still the caterpillar - just in a different state. I am still Molly, but in a new (and hopefully improved) way. This blog will reflect that inner transformation.
So I decided to give the blog a new look - a facelift, so to speak. I had maintained the same blog design for nearly two years and it signaled to me the bookishness of my personality. I thought it might be best to change the outer design to signal to others that this blog is different - the same, but different. I even changed my profile picture - from the one taken nearly seven years ago to one that I took myself on Halloween. I have recently cut my hair from shoulder length to chin length --- and my costume that day was an authentic French beret. Not really a costume, but more an inner connection with my Parisian love affair and desire to revisit that city on a regular basis. It is not the most flattering picture that I have ever taken, but it is significant.
I currently have many posts ideas rambling around in my head - but I have promised myself that I will not stress posting every day - or even on a more modified schedule. I will post when I have the time - and the material. And I will thoroughly enjoy every minute of it!
Happy December to you all.
I gave a lot of thought to reinventing "my" blog --- starting from scratch with a new domain, new name, new focus. But in the end I decided that this blog is truly a reflection of me. Three years ago my primary focus in life, outside family of course, was teaching and reading. Period. I was a two dimensional character. But over these past three years I have not so much reinvented myself as I have discovered new aspects of me. The butterfly is still the caterpillar - just in a different state. I am still Molly, but in a new (and hopefully improved) way. This blog will reflect that inner transformation.
So I decided to give the blog a new look - a facelift, so to speak. I had maintained the same blog design for nearly two years and it signaled to me the bookishness of my personality. I thought it might be best to change the outer design to signal to others that this blog is different - the same, but different. I even changed my profile picture - from the one taken nearly seven years ago to one that I took myself on Halloween. I have recently cut my hair from shoulder length to chin length --- and my costume that day was an authentic French beret. Not really a costume, but more an inner connection with my Parisian love affair and desire to revisit that city on a regular basis. It is not the most flattering picture that I have ever taken, but it is significant.
I currently have many posts ideas rambling around in my head - but I have promised myself that I will not stress posting every day - or even on a more modified schedule. I will post when I have the time - and the material. And I will thoroughly enjoy every minute of it!
Happy December to you all.
A Photo Assignment - third time's a charm?
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I have spent a large part of this long weekend practicing photography. Yes, I finally got my head out of the books, took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather (Sunday = 55 degrees; Monday = 67 degrees!), and went for a photo shoot.
The assignment was to really spend time on one subject and photograph that subject from a varieties of different angles, perspective, etc. The first time I read the lesson, I interpreted "subject" in a broad sense. I decided that I would go to the local arboretum and photograph nature. While there was little floral vegetation, there were some variety of plant life and tranquil spots by the water. I took 242 pictures, of which I am willing to share three. Not great odds, but I did learn quite a bit about light and how the angle of the sun in relation to the subject can dramatically alter the mood of the picture. I learned to use my exposure compensation to help overcome my ineptitude of proper manual settings.
This is actually one of the first photos I took. I liked the way the sun provided the warm glow to these cat's tails. I had hoped to have the rocks a bit less in focus, so that the cat's tails would truly stand out, but my camera lens did not stop down far enough.
I experimented for quite some time with this subject, and in a couple of pictures I focused on just one of the stalks, but I thought this group of three made for a more cohesive shot.
This picture allowed me to play with depth of field a bit more. As I study it, however, I wish there was more of a contrast between the subject and the background. Oh well, I am definitely still learning.
After spending quite some time trying to take a picture of the rope bridge (to no avail) I looked behind me and noticed these benches next to the water. I thought it might be fun to take a picture of this spot in the middle of winter - and then return in six months and see how the tree has filled out and the grass has greened up.
While I don't think this is a spectacular photo (and I am sure many of you with far better composition techniques could give me a few pointers), I do like the idea that it could inspire a story. Who might walk into this setting and sit down by the water? A romantic couple? A lonely teen? A young mother with her newborn?
After this shoot I came home and read some of the message boards for the class. Apparently same subject meant, literally, the same subject. If I wanted to photograph flowers, then the same flower from a variety of perspectives, angles, etc. Of course, this makes more sense: if I am truly going to develop my eye for the beauty around me, I need to slow down and really see the beauty up close, far away, underneath, overhead, etc.
Ok -- so round two. We were encouraged to find a subject that evokes an emotional response from us - something that we find inspirational. Well, for me, that would be my dogs. So I went out to the backyard for about thirty minutes and took another 211 pictures (isn't it wonderful that we don't have to pay for the developing of film in this day and age?!). I tried to focus my attention on the newest member of the canine family, but it was impossible not to include the other three in this photo shoot. There was lots of sniffing......running....rough-housing.
In hindsight, this was not a great subject choice. Yes, they inspire me and bring me great joy. Yes, they are my most photographed subject by a margin of about 3:1 --- but to try for a variety of angles and perspectives is impossible. If I tried to sit on the ground, they were on top of me. If I tried to crouch in their face, they would attempt to lick the lens. It was definitely a humorous shoot, but not terribly productive for this assignment.
I did however find a couple of photos that are worth sharing....and again, I did learn a valuable lesson even if it wasn't the focus of this particular assignment. I learned that when photographing nature, I like to use Aperture Priority, as I prefer the control over depth of field. But when shooting dogs, particularly six month old puppies, Shutter Priority is the way to go. I set the shutter speed at 1/250 and the ISO to 200 (it was partially shaded), and I let the camera adjust the aperture accordingly.
So, I am wondering if perhaps I should try this assignment one more time. I am thinking of perhaps trying to photograph my nook - filled with shelves of books (my next favorite pastime to my dogs). Or perhaps I could photograph my car (now that would provide all kinds of angles for different perspectives) - or maybe my morning cup of coffee? I don't know....apparently developing my creative eye is going to take a bit longer than most.
I have spent a large part of this long weekend practicing photography. Yes, I finally got my head out of the books, took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather (Sunday = 55 degrees; Monday = 67 degrees!), and went for a photo shoot.The assignment was to really spend time on one subject and photograph that subject from a varieties of different angles, perspective, etc. The first time I read the lesson, I interpreted "subject" in a broad sense. I decided that I would go to the local arboretum and photograph nature. While there was little floral vegetation, there were some variety of plant life and tranquil spots by the water. I took 242 pictures, of which I am willing to share three. Not great odds, but I did learn quite a bit about light and how the angle of the sun in relation to the subject can dramatically alter the mood of the picture. I learned to use my exposure compensation to help overcome my ineptitude of proper manual settings.
This is actually one of the first photos I took. I liked the way the sun provided the warm glow to these cat's tails. I had hoped to have the rocks a bit less in focus, so that the cat's tails would truly stand out, but my camera lens did not stop down far enough.
I experimented for quite some time with this subject, and in a couple of pictures I focused on just one of the stalks, but I thought this group of three made for a more cohesive shot.
This picture allowed me to play with depth of field a bit more. As I study it, however, I wish there was more of a contrast between the subject and the background. Oh well, I am definitely still learning.After spending quite some time trying to take a picture of the rope bridge (to no avail) I looked behind me and noticed these benches next to the water. I thought it might be fun to take a picture of this spot in the middle of winter - and then return in six months and see how the tree has filled out and the grass has greened up.While I don't think this is a spectacular photo (and I am sure many of you with far better composition techniques could give me a few pointers), I do like the idea that it could inspire a story. Who might walk into this setting and sit down by the water? A romantic couple? A lonely teen? A young mother with her newborn?
After this shoot I came home and read some of the message boards for the class. Apparently same subject meant, literally, the same subject. If I wanted to photograph flowers, then the same flower from a variety of perspectives, angles, etc. Of course, this makes more sense: if I am truly going to develop my eye for the beauty around me, I need to slow down and really see the beauty up close, far away, underneath, overhead, etc.
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| Occasionally Jude has to show Feeny who's boss. |
In hindsight, this was not a great subject choice. Yes, they inspire me and bring me great joy. Yes, they are my most photographed subject by a margin of about 3:1 --- but to try for a variety of angles and perspectives is impossible. If I tried to sit on the ground, they were on top of me. If I tried to crouch in their face, they would attempt to lick the lens. It was definitely a humorous shoot, but not terribly productive for this assignment.
I did however find a couple of photos that are worth sharing....and again, I did learn a valuable lesson even if it wasn't the focus of this particular assignment. I learned that when photographing nature, I like to use Aperture Priority, as I prefer the control over depth of field. But when shooting dogs, particularly six month old puppies, Shutter Priority is the way to go. I set the shutter speed at 1/250 and the ISO to 200 (it was partially shaded), and I let the camera adjust the aperture accordingly.So, I am wondering if perhaps I should try this assignment one more time. I am thinking of perhaps trying to photograph my nook - filled with shelves of books (my next favorite pastime to my dogs). Or perhaps I could photograph my car (now that would provide all kinds of angles for different perspectives) - or maybe my morning cup of coffee? I don't know....apparently developing my creative eye is going to take a bit longer than most.
KUOW Hike of the Week- Triple Crown
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Updated Tuesday 6-26-2012
Snoqualmie Falls are really flowing now given all the rain lately and the snow-melt. Featured below are three short hikes near near the Falls. You will enjoy accomplishing this feat- the triple crown. It is a perfect time to take the kids and/or out-of-town guests to check out the roaring falls.
Check out Green Trails Maps for directions. Map for this week's trip is 205S and 206S. Click link below for complete list of maps.http:// http://greentrailsmaps.com/maps/index_Map_wa/
Directions to Part 1- Snoqualmie Falls/Preston Trail:From Seattle Drive I-90 east and get off at Preston exit and turn left. Follow this road (Preston-Fall City Rd) north and go about 3.9 miles towards Fall City and turn right on Lake Alice Road. Go 0.8 miles to parking lot for Preston-Snoqualime Trail. Hike the one way 1.9 miles to Snoqualmie Falls Viewpoint. This is a King County Park and you do not need any permits. Green Trails Map 205S
Directions To Snoqualmie Falls Park-Salish Lodge:Take Lake Alice Rd back to Preston-Fall City Rd and turn right; go a short distance through Fall City and then turn right (east) onto Washington 202 (SE Fall City Snoqualmie Rd). Travel east about 6 miles and the Falls is on the right. Green Trails Map 205S. No permit needed, this park is owned by Puget Sound Energy.
Directions to part 2- Little Si:From Falls go back on Washington 202 and go east go through town of Snoqualmie. Continue through the town of North Bend (about 5 miles). Turn left on Mt Si Road. Go less than 1/2 mile to trailhead on left. You do need a Discover Pass for this trail. Green Trails Map 206S. Hike is a total 5 miles roundtrip with a 1200 feet gain.
Directions to part 3- Rattlesnake Ledge:From Mt Si road turn left on North Bend Way (Washington 202) and go 1/2 mile to the first right which is 436 SE. Follow this (about 4 miles), it will become Cedar Falls Rd SE and Rattlesnake State Park is on right.Green Trails Maps 205S. The hike to Rattlesnake Ledge is a total 4 miles roundtrip and 1160 feet gain.
Please click this link to print coupon: http://woweather.com/Attic.pdf
Snoqualmie Falls are really flowing now given all the rain lately and the snow-melt. Featured below are three short hikes near near the Falls. You will enjoy accomplishing this feat- the triple crown. It is a perfect time to take the kids and/or out-of-town guests to check out the roaring falls.
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| Photo of falls from over-look at Snoqualmie Falls Park/Salish Lodge |
Check out Green Trails Maps for directions. Map for this week's trip is 205S and 206S. Click link below for complete list of maps.http:// http://greentrailsmaps.com/maps/index_Map_wa/Scroll to the end of this blog for a special offer for KUOW listeners.
(Posted 6-26-2012)
Part one of triple crown- Snoqualmie Falls Trail
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| Easy hike on the forest trail |
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| Lodge and falls from Snoqualmie Falls Trail |
Take break at Snoqualmie Falls Park
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| From Snoqualmie Falls Park |
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| From Snoqaulmie Falls Park |
Part two of triple crown- Little Si
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| Hike in the forest on the way up Little Si |
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| Hike in the forest on the way up Little Si |
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| View of Fuller Mount |
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| View from the top |
Part three of the triple crown- Rattlesnake Ledge
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| Mt. Si with damp fog in the valley |
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| Rattlesnake Lake |
Directions to Part 1- Snoqualmie Falls/Preston Trail:From Seattle Drive I-90 east and get off at Preston exit and turn left. Follow this road (Preston-Fall City Rd) north and go about 3.9 miles towards Fall City and turn right on Lake Alice Road. Go 0.8 miles to parking lot for Preston-Snoqualime Trail. Hike the one way 1.9 miles to Snoqualmie Falls Viewpoint. This is a King County Park and you do not need any permits. Green Trails Map 205S
Directions To Snoqualmie Falls Park-Salish Lodge:Take Lake Alice Rd back to Preston-Fall City Rd and turn right; go a short distance through Fall City and then turn right (east) onto Washington 202 (SE Fall City Snoqualmie Rd). Travel east about 6 miles and the Falls is on the right. Green Trails Map 205S. No permit needed, this park is owned by Puget Sound Energy.
Directions to part 2- Little Si:From Falls go back on Washington 202 and go east go through town of Snoqualmie. Continue through the town of North Bend (about 5 miles). Turn left on Mt Si Road. Go less than 1/2 mile to trailhead on left. You do need a Discover Pass for this trail. Green Trails Map 206S. Hike is a total 5 miles roundtrip with a 1200 feet gain.
Directions to part 3- Rattlesnake Ledge:From Mt Si road turn left on North Bend Way (Washington 202) and go 1/2 mile to the first right which is 436 SE. Follow this (about 4 miles), it will become Cedar Falls Rd SE and Rattlesnake State Park is on right.Green Trails Maps 205S. The hike to Rattlesnake Ledge is a total 4 miles roundtrip and 1160 feet gain.
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| The Attic pub at Salish Lodge. What to order to go with this wonderful view? |
Special for KUOW listeners: Print coupon to get a 25% discount (for July) on drinks or food at The Attic, located on fourth floor of Salish Lodge right next to Snoqualmie Falls Park.
Please click this link to print coupon: http://woweather.com/Attic.pdf
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