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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.
5 Temmuz 2012 Perşembe
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
To contact us Click HERE
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
Cascade Extended Outlook
To contact us Click HERE
Issued Tuesday July 3, 2012
Forecast models are indicating a ridge of high pressure setting up through the middle of July so we can expect above normal temperatures and below normal rainfall. The map below (500 mb-18,000 feet) shows a trough of low pressure that builds over the West Coast
Email (click below) us and get your free mountain weather forecasts delivered to you via email. Special for KUOW listeners and Seattle Backpackers magazine readers
West Coast WeatherEmail us to get on our free mountain weather emailed. Limited offer for non members
KUOW Hike of the week Yellow Hill
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Updated Tuesday July 3, 2012Hike is Yellow Hill in the Teanaway area just east of Cle Elum. Best to do this Wednesday through Friday.
Photo below of Mt. Rainier
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 is of Balsamroot: Is that why this is called Yellow Hill?
Photo below is hiker on trail
Photo below is of Stuart Range
Directions: From Seattle drive east on I-90 to East Cle Elum, exit 85. Cross over the freeway overpass and turn right (northbound) on State Route 970. Cross the Teanaway River bridge, and in another mile turn left onto Teanaway Road. Then to go to Middle Fork of Teanaway and turn left drive about 4.5 miles to the Indian Camp Campground. Continue 0.7 mile farther to the trailhead park.
Trail stats: Starts on the right. Trail 1222 (unmarked) Starts as a road walk for about 1.5. At 3 miles (from start) you reach shoulder of Yellow Hill which is at 5527 feet. Miles is 6 rountrip 2700 feet gain
Directions and trail stats are our best estimate however please have a good local map and or a GPS unit.
Custom Weather Forecasts & Services
West Coast WeatherContact us
Photo below of Mt. Rainier
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 is of Balsamroot: Is that why this is called Yellow Hill?
Photo below is hiker on trailPhoto below is of Stuart RangeDirections: From Seattle drive east on I-90 to East Cle Elum, exit 85. Cross over the freeway overpass and turn right (northbound) on State Route 970. Cross the Teanaway River bridge, and in another mile turn left onto Teanaway Road. Then to go to Middle Fork of Teanaway and turn left drive about 4.5 miles to the Indian Camp Campground. Continue 0.7 mile farther to the trailhead park. Trail stats: Starts on the right. Trail 1222 (unmarked) Starts as a road walk for about 1.5. At 3 miles (from start) you reach shoulder of Yellow Hill which is at 5527 feet. Miles is 6 rountrip 2700 feet gain
Directions and trail stats are our best estimate however please have a good local map and or a GPS unit.
Custom Weather Forecasts & Services
West Coast WeatherContact us
4 Temmuz 2012 Çarşamba
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.
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