365 Project - Day 273

"Ah, great it is to believe the dream as we stand in youth by the starry stream; but a greater thing is to fight life through and say at the end, the dream is true!" Edwin Markham

I know. I have been warned that it's a bad idea to capture so many flowers in a single photograph. Yet, I do it anyway and one of my favorite paintings in my home is a massively disorganized giant floral bouquet. So, what gives?

My objective here was to capture a few flowers in focus - a sign of moving forward with focus and intent, despite any noise (out of focus flowers in the background) - both positive and negative.

At some point, we have to ingest faith, suit up and step out, if we're to end up where we're meant to be. The good news is, the Bible tells us over and over again that God works all things together for good. We might just want to truly believe. Then, when we make our move, the universe will move the necessary widgets in place to support us. I'm pushing myself to realize the quote above. Are you ready?

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Stepping out!

"Scripture reassures us, 'No one who trusts God like this - heart and soul - will ever regret it.' It's the same no matter what a person's religious background may be: the same God for all of us, acting the same incredibly generous way to everyone who calls out for help. 'Everyone who calls, "Help, God!" gets help.' " Romans 10:11-13







EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
50mm
f2
1/90s

365 Project - Day 272

"Don't magnify your problems; magnify your God." Joel Osteen

I enjoy unusual flowers. Roses do not fall into that category, but I decided to play with this one. This adaptation made me smile.

Just a thought ... what if, we could be happy despite our circumstances? Said differently, what if being happy makes us happy? We know that being negative or being around negative people and bad influences makes us negative. Surely the opposite is true as well, right?

Try this on: Make the decision to be happy. To let God takeover and manage our troubles. To envelop yourself in positive experiences, friends and acquaintances. And, soon you will be happy. Nah - it cannot be that easy, right? There's no way the difficulties we face each day could be overcome by relaxing in the comforting knowledge that He's in control. It makes far more sense to wallow in grief, sadness and our view that nothing good ever comes our way!

I believe that we get hung up on "what makes us happy" and then disappointed when those things or persons do not come through. Leading a life based on faith, shifts our focus: God is in control, therefore, why not be happy? Is that difficult? Absolutely! Here's where we might dig in and avail ourselves of the adage, "fake it till you make it."

We do not know how a distraction, delay or disappointment is being orchestrated into our grand plan or how our diversion may help another. So, we could choose to be content. From where I sit, I prefer that over sadness, despair and depression, particularly given the promises of God. Getting to contentment, though, does require less me, more Him.

Blessings.

Today's Photo: Contented Rose

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1Thessalonians 5:16-18








EXIF: Nikon D810
ISO 800
50mm
f8
1/6s

365 Project - Days 270, 271

"Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise." Les Misérables

There is a strange feeling watching your stoic son stand straight and tall before a near sell-out crowd with tears streaming down his face. I know they were tears sourced from a mixture of joy, love and sadness. I love that he loves so deeply and has found a group of friends with whom he shares and enjoys so much.

Sunday's final performance of Les Misérables by Sabrina's Encore Productions was as beautifully performed as every other. Such tremendous joy. The kids offered a wonderful gift to each other, the audience and Sabrina by giving all they had left to give. And, as the Les Misérables song goes, "to love another person is to see the face of God."

The way these kids embrace, love, and support each other has propelled them to extraordinary heights and fueled talent in our small community that surpasses talent found in much larger towns. After witnessing this, I am now more convinced than ever of the importance of nurturing in developing talent. Training and practice are essential, but without nurturing, talent grows on a singular plane, depth is impossible.

My son sang more brilliantly than ever this weekend. I wanted to jump to my feet at the end of his solos and cheer. He was just that good. It was the perfect way to finish - surrounded and buoyed by his friends and peers.

As I watched the tears streak his cheeks, I thought "And now, we move on."

Blessings.

Today's Photos: Do you hear the people sing?

"Another day, another destiny." Les Misérables

365 Project - Days 268, 269

"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3:23-24

It's hard to describe. The weekend's performances of Les Misérables far surpassed anything these kids had performed over the years. It truly was as though they had been practicing, rehearsing for this show their entire lives. Then, just at it arrived, they peaked. I'm fairly certain that my son has been visualizing this moment for years. Perhaps it is the same for many of the other kids. The talent was enormous.

The cast, crew, pit and directors put their heart and soul into this production. Nothing was left unfinished. As you see in the photos below, everyone is intensely involved in every scene regardless of the height of their role. While my sons may be the central characters, the scene would be incomplete without the ensemble embellishing their roles.

This is a perfect example of the importance of executing every thing we do as though it were the most important. Nothing is too small, particularly in the eyes of the Lord. He has granted us many gifts - some grande, some petite, all to be used to improve the world. This cast did that exceptionally well. I enjoy the expressions in these photos. Bravo!

Today's Photos: The Inspector and The Master

"Tomorrow we'll discover what our God in heaven has in store..."

365 Project - 266, 267

“Do you hear the people sing
Lost in the valley of the night?
It is the music of a people
Who are climbing to the light.

For the wretched of the earth
There is a flame that never dies.
Even the darkest night will end
And the sun will rise.”
― Victor Hugo, Les Misérables

What a beautiful way to begin the countdown to my final 100 days of my 365 Project! Les Misérables student edition has been fantastic to watch, a sheer joy to behold.

It was my pleasure to photograph the headshots, build their bio/cast boards and take the cast photo for the kids in the show. They have brought their beautiful energy to each and every performance. I believe this is much more than an exercise in delivering the direction their given. Each and every youth has embodied their role. It is clear they are having a ball. It is clear they are extraordinarily gifted. It is clear they are being nurtured in an exceptional environment. As one audience member said tonight, in having the opportunity to perform this show, they have been given a gift they will never forget. This is a show that will live on in their hearts forever.

I love that I get to be a part of it, blessed to be witnessing the unfolding. Imagine a dream unfolding for you precisely as you had envisioned it would happen. This dream. This gift. This now. This should encourage all of us. Dreams do come true, often. And when they do, the dream can surpass your imagination.

Here's to your dreams coming true!

"So Jesus answered and said to them, 'Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, "Be removed and be cast into the sea," and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore, I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them.' " Mark 11:22-24

365 Project - Days 264, 265

"Lord, hear my prayer, in my need you have always been there." From "Bring Him Home" Les Miserables

We are heads down, all in, preparing for this weekend's performances of Les Miserables The Student Edition by Sabrina's Encore Production. This is my eldest son's final performance with the company and my youngest son's 20th musical overall (his first was with Sabrina's when he was 6 yrs old). One of the things I like about this show is its constant, deliberate reference to the Lord. And now as always, I am looking for both strength and peace from the Him.

The photos from these two days, are one of the reminders of our preparation, preparing both our external and internal home and bodies as we ready for one of the most exciting seasons for our family. We will be welcoming family and friends to join us for the performances. And by the end of this, we expect to be quite emotional. For now, we're hoping for more blessings, joy and a little relaxation along the way.

Best wishes!

Today's Photos: The Preparation

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9

365 Project - Day 263

"Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude." Ralph Waldo Emerson

I have been fervently trying to capture my husband's marigolds. My attempts have been largely futile. While hearty plants, they are too tiny for my lenses to crisply capture. I do not have a true macro lens, so this has been an exercise in daily pursuit. I have learned, however, to be simply grateful for their adornment of our garden. I'm more casual in my attempt now and think more about the full composition of the photograph, less about the individual flower.

I often try to think about life in that way as well. Be present enough to clothe myself in gratitude for the moment and also provide myself with enough space to think less about an individual annoyance and more about the big picture, the full composition.

To be sure, those more composed thoughts don't always come in the midst of the frustrating moment. Sometimes, I just can't clear my head. I do, however, try to force the clearing quickly, remembering that all things, good and not so, contribute to my well-being. And a habit of gratitude, I'm convinced, begets more opportunities to be thankful.

Blessings.

Today's Photos: Composed Marigolds

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18







EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 400
50mm
f2.8
1/100s

365 Project - Day 262

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

This weekend, we enjoyed watching the youngest kids from Sabrina's Encore Productions deliver their best performances during Beauty and the Beast and Thoroughly Modern Millie. Both were fantastic shows we enjoyed deeply.

My son served as a Director's Assistant for the Beauty kids, helping them understand blocking and learn lines. He was then asked to step in as the Beast during the transformation scene. He's literally on stage for less than 5 minutes and the words spoken come from the real Beast in the wings, but he sold his role. He came in larger than life (for real) and sold his personal transformation .. He was the Beast! Those 5 minutes were a stand-out performance - I was proud of him.

In our lives, we will be tasked with moments of great responsibility and moments of great humility. How we operate and how we treat others in our moments of humility will truly define who we are. Standing in for the Beast might have been considered by some as a moment of humility. To my son, it was as though this was his "breakout" moment. He fully enjoyed every aspect of it.

It should be that way for us, as well. Regardless of the situation: embrace the simplest of tasks, for each allows us to give, learn and grow and in each, God is with us.

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: The Beast!

“Now and then we had a hope that if we lived and were good, God would permit us to be pirates.”
― Mark Twain, Life on the Mississippi








EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 1250
82mm
f2.8
1/100s

365 Project - Day 261

"You have given me the capacity to hear and obey." Psalm 40:6

"If you want God's plan for your life, I can give you the recipe in its most basic form: pray and obey." Joyce Meyer

Sometimes summer church can be a bit of a hit or miss. Today was a "hit" for me. I enjoyed listening to our pastor's former pastor discuss faith. There were two exciting pieces for me. The one referenced above: Pray and Obey ... That was fantastic in it's simplicity. What does God require of us? Time and attention. To achieve the purpose(s) we are here to deliver, our quest becomes clearer, easier and more direct if we pray / listen and then obey / execute.

The second exciting discussion was the realization that we have already been gifted the promises of God. They are ours; freely given; waiting on us. We have the talent and capabilities necessary to achieve our purpose, yet we don't believe it. It is that very lack of belief we all experience that holds us back and gets us into trouble. As Pressfield & Coyne explain in their book, The War of Art, "Resistance aims to kill. Its target is the epicenter of our being: our genius, our soul, the unique and priceless gift we were put on earth to give and that no one else has but us." Yet, the angels are simply awaiting our signal - one positive thought, our declaration of purpose, our first step. That is their opportunity to boost our flight.

So we have been granted these promises. We own them, but rarely acknowledge or possess them, like a pair of shoes we bought, but never wear. We need to just get on with it and step out in faith, secure in the knowledge that the promise has already been delivered.

The photo below is of one of the cast-boards I created for the shows this week. You may even notice that there is one waiting to be completed in the background - intentionally in the shot. With it, I am stepping out in faith to embrace God's promises and declare my purpose. How about you?

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Without Resistance

"Now He was teaching one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And behold, there was a woman who had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years, and was bent over and could in no way raise herself up. But when Jesus saw her, He called her to Him and said to her, "Woman, you are loosed from your infirmity." And He laid His hands on her. and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God." Luke 13:10-13

365 Project - Days 259, 260

"Be like the bird, that pausing in her flight awhile on boughs too slight, feels them give way beneath her and yet sings, knowing that she hath wings." Victor Hugo

I continue to enjoy watching the flurry of bird activity in the garden. I tried to find a way to capture all of the birds and their antics. I'll keep working at it, but thought combining these two days might be a fun way to share.

In the first photo, you see 2 sparrows and a titmouse hanging out together. The second one shows a woodpecker flying away, while the cardinal and sparrow are flying in. And the third is of 2 titmice and a sparrow in the feeder while Mrs. Cardinal awaits an opportunity. The respect with which they share the food is remarkable.

I have truly enjoyed the dynamic of the of bird activity - the restlessness, the diversity, the activity high and low and watching the birds soar. In this particular garden, one cannot be timid and expect to enjoy the best the garden has to offer. You must aggressively swoop in and grab your place. It's okay to wait for your moment, but wait too long and the squirrel will have stolen your opportunity.

I have read the above quote repeatedly. To me, it offers the hope that if we will push ourselves while in the thick of difficulties (the slight boughs), we will find that we have precisely what it takes to overcome those adventures. And there is joy or singing in the knowledge that we have or have gained our wings at that precise moment.

Blessings!

Today's Photos: Wings!

"Let not the opinions of man interfere with the directions given to you by God." Unknown

365 Project - Day 258

“Sometimes the right thing feels all wrong until it is over and done with.” Alice Hoffman

When I read this today, I knew this was for me. I have completed and turned in the cast boards for the two shows this week. In doing so, I made 4 trips to printers, 2 trips to Michaels, slept only a few hours this week and every once in awhile wondered if I was crazy. As I was putting on the finishing touches today, I decided the boards looked a little too clean. As I did for my last show, I added a few musical stickers. Luckily, it was just a few. When I opened the trifolds to erase any visible pencil marks before turning the boards over to my husband for delivery, I screeched. The tops of the stickers on 2 of the boards had peeled off onto the photos, ruining the photographs. Once I finished spinning, I peeled the photos and the stickers. Replaced the stickers with stock paper stars and headed off to the printer to get replacement photographs.

Meanwhile, I have been getting advice from the SmugMug Heroes on the photos for next week's performance. That package of 50 came in with dark backgrounds despite being shot in much the same manner as the ones I completed today. The photos are beautiful, just not what I expected. At their advice, I adjusted my post-processing and resubmitted. The SmugMug gang is fantastic and I have no worries about the next batch. The production of each board takes a full day. When the new prints arrive, I will have exactly 4 days to complete 4 boards for the next show! I'm hoping to get some sleep between now and then.

The funny thing is that while I was struggling through all of this, I thought to myself, "You can look at this one of two ways, the choice is yours: 1) this is simply not meant to be." But then just as quickly, I thought of all the joy this work brings and the reminder that the absolute delight I feel when I finish a headshot project like this, regardless of where I started and what I go through, transcends the mess. Or I could say, "2) when I get through this, I will be the smartest person around." God does not waste these crazy moments. It is all part of the learning process. If I wasn't constantly seeking new information; trying it out; learning what works and what doesn't, my failures would come at far more inopportune moments and my growth would come far slower. These challenges, or mistakes, are freebies now. All of these efforts are gratis. I'll be a seasoned genius (and fully burned-in, not burned-out) in no time.

It bears repeating, regardless of where I start, I finish at the same point. I am pleased with my headshots. I adore these kids. It is that extreme desire to deliver a headshot they love that makes me nuts, but also keeps me one step ahead of agonizing defeat. So, bring on the pain - the gain is so worth it.

Blessings!

Today's Photo: One step ahead

"Have you ever come on anything quite like this extravagant generosity of God, this deep, deep wisdom? It's way over our heads. We'll never figure it out. Is there anyone around who can explain God? Anyone smart enough to tell him what to do? Anyone who has done him such a huge favor that God has to ask his advice? Everything comes from him; Everything happens through him; Everything ends up in him. Always glory! Always praise! Yes. Yes. Yes." Romans 11:33-36






EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
50mm
f2
1/400s

365 Project - Day 256, 257

"It's not the tragedies that kill us, it's the messes." Dorothy Parker

I am all absorbed with completing the headshot boards for this week's Sabrina's Encore Productions shows, Beauty and the Beast and Thoroughly Modern Millie. When I get like this, I am mostly numb, and can do little else than make multiple trips to the printers to fix photos and then, measure, print, cut, tape, repeat.

The only time I am not fully consumed and anxious is when I am watching the bird activity and wandering amongst my garden. Something odd is happening with the birds. From my perspective, it's inexplicable. I have a daily rush hour in my garden. Throughout the day, there will be short segments of time when lots of birds will swoop in grab a bite, hang around on a limb and walk around the rocks. I expected fewer birds when the squirrels down-sized me to a single feeder, but there are more. I have fewer goldfinches and several of the larger birds are gone, replaced by hoards of titmice, nuthatches and woodpeckers. More cardinals are here all day and the mourning doves are hanging around in a nice, tight pair. Everyone seems to be getting along and taking turns, but the squirrels still bully the birds my swinging from the branches to jump on the feeder. And, that's irritating.

I'm surprised by the calm that overcomes me as I watch the activity. Even a few moments with the birds is enough to regroup and reset. Perhaps observing their frantic activity, helps me release and forget my own. At the end of the day, I know I get this way when I don't take enough time to pray and rest - something I know intellectually, but in the thick of things am not always great about making the time - and creating the environment that would envelop me in peace. Yet, tomorrow is a new day!

Blessings.

Today's Photos:

Active Garden - Day 256

Active Garden - Day 257

"God cannot give you happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing." C.S. Lewis

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

365 Project - Day 255

"As God's co-workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says, 'In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you. I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.' " 2Corinthians 6:1-2

My son came home from rehearsal wide-eyed and speaking strangely. "Oh mom," he said, "there are so many stars out tonight. It's awesome." I was thrilled that a 14 year old boy would even notice such a thing. Then, at 11:00 at night, came an even stranger event. "Shouldn't we go out an take a picture?" Say what? My child was urging me to go and spend time with him doing the thing I love the most.

It's possible that one other day, ever, I have attempted to photograph the stars. I had no idea what to do, except to say, "Yes, of course." Dressed in our pajamas, the two of us grabbed my tripod and camera and headed outdoors. We chose to shoot in the backyard where there was more space and a flatter surface, but I'm not sure that was the best choice.

After spending time choosing a location, setting the camera, sorting out how to turn the tripod head so the camera would sit upside down and getting set up, we took a few photographs. Of course, we're missing context and a wider angle lens would have been a better option - I should have grabbed my other son's Sigma 17-70mm, but I was admittedly virtually clueless. I'm sure there are a number of other things we should also have taken into consideration, but I was just so happy to be outside obliging and hanging out with my son.

Grace can come in all forms, in the strangest moments and at inopportune times. On this day, it came after a long day, in the look and the words of my child. It came in the late evening air and the expanse of the stars. I am blessed and thrilled to have had this shared experience with my son.

Blessings.

Today's Photo: His Splendor!

"The sun has one kind of splendor, the moon another and the stars another; and star differs from star in splendor." 1Corinthians 15:41








EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 800
35mm
f/4
25s

365 Project - Day 254

"Along with the sunshine, there's gotta be a little rain sometimes." Lynne Anderson, Rose Garden

So I am dating myself, but when I was a teeny tiny itsy bitsy girl, I used to choreograph dance routines to this and other songs like Harper Valley PTA. Not joking. We would perform our little dance routines for anyone who was willing to watch. I'm sure it was a hoot! I can still remember pulling down the shades during our Harper Valley routine. Okay so - you might have to look up the lyrics!

Rose Garden came to mind today as I looked at this photograph and thought about my day. I have tried multiple times to procure quality headshot prints from a local shop that everyone tells me they use. After repeated attempts and successive failures. I give up. And, actually the problem isn't just with headshots. Any color print process fails. Today I was in tears from the combination of pure exhaustion, frustration and abject failure. Actually, why did I assume this time would be any different?

The good news is that I know there is a fantastic lesson in here - I just need to hold on, dig in, discover the truth and use it to gain future success. I just need to hold on ... Yep. That's the struggle. I know.

Yet, all day long I have been reminded of Napoleon Hill and Ralph Waldo Emerson and their views "that every adversity brings with it the seed of equivalent advantage." I couldn't even wail for thinking for this and that the more important points today may have been these -

Emerson: "Don't be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experiment. The more experiments you make the better.”

Hill: “When defeat comes, accept it as a signal that your plans are not sound, rebuild those plans, and set sail once more toward your coveted goal.”

Was it a drag to pick up the photos and see something altogether different than what I see on my fully calibrated screens? Of course, but I know there is more to this than the store can't print my stuff. I went back to all 110 photos and reworked them a bit. I have learned a final lesson, though, from this particular shop! It and I do not do well together. I will move on to another print shop and I'm excited about that.

Today, I lived the adage, "we live and we learn" and am adding to it, "and we grow". And to grow, we need both rain and sun.

Blessings!

Today's Photo: After the rain!

Needed this: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." 1Thessalonians 5:16-18 ... Thank you Lord!








EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 400
52mm
f9
1/125s

365 Project - Day 253

"Your results are the product of either personal focus or personal distractions. The choice is yours." John Di Lemme

This beauty was a surprise. As my husband, insensitively, filled this section of my garden with mulch he told me that if my lovely Calla Lilies had not reappeared by the time he was ready to mulch, they were not coming back. Boo-hoo!

In my garden, however, my plants persevere with amazing fortitude. Not one can be called "done". They have all survived little attention, a horrendous winter and now, being completely covered by muck. It is wonderful to see the Callas burst forth out of the mulching muck to emerge stronger and more beautiful than ever. If only we should persist as such, huh?

I photographed at twilight. And just for fun, I chose to minimize the amount of the flower in focus and fade out the background. This was my attempt to illustrate the need for focus on the right things in our lives, despite the amount of noise the rest may make. Too often we let the muck steal our joy and our focus, losing sight of what is most important.

So from this day forward, I am choosing to minimize the distractions caused by the muck so that I can major on things that create joy and beauty and peace. Join me?

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Pinpoint Focus

“Be on guard. The road widens, and many of the detours are seductive.” David Foster Wallace

365 Project - Day 252

"I would like, in closing, to remind you that you do not know the power of God in your life, personally, unless you will prepare the way for him to come in. Those valleys that have been areas of compromise need to be exalted. Those hills of pride and aggression need to be made low. Those crooked places where we have been guilty of self-seeking and self-manipulation for the sake of using others, they need to be straightened out. The rough places where we have been guilty of the things that have built barriers and problems between us and other people need to be made plain. But the only way this will become true in your life and mine is to let God be God. Let God come in and be Master of our experience.

Years ago the great musician, composer, performer, Mendelssohn, was on vacation in Germany and went out to a little village There was an old church in that village, and in that church an old organ. And so he went down to the church, wanting to see if it was open and whether he could go and play a bit at the organ. And as he came up to the church and opened the door and stepped inside he heard the strains of music. He sat down in the back pew and listened as the old organist was there practicing. After some time he slipped out of the bench and went up to the organist and reached out and put his hand on his shoulder and said, 'Pardon me, but would you let me play for just a few minutes.' The old organist looked at him and gave him a sharp reply that said, in essence, 'No, this is my organ. I play. It's not for anyone else.' Mendelssohn stood there and listened a few moments. A little later he put out his hand and said, 'Please, just for a few minutes. I won't hurt the organ.' And again the old organist gave him a rebut. And after a few Mendelssohn put his hand on the organist's should and said, "Just five minutes - I won't hurt the instrument - just five minutes.' And the old organist slid off the bench and Mendelssohn seated himself at the console of the organ and began to play. Five minutes, ten minutes, fifteen - twenty - half an hour - forty-five minutes, and the old organist was standing there, with tears running down his cheeks listening. Suddenly Mendelssohn stopped, and looked up, embarrassed that he had played so long. The old organist leaned forward and said, 'Who are you?' And he looked up and simply said, 'Why, I'm Mendelssohn.' The old organist threw his hands up in the air and said, 'Alas, I almost lost the opportunity to have the master play my organ.'

It would be a tragedy at the end of your life or mine if we had to say, 'I lost the opportunity to have the Master play my organ.' Let God be God in your life. That's the job of the present, and the meaning of success for today and tomorrow."
- Myron R. Ausburger

Amen! Blessings


Today's Photo: Internal Inferno

"One thing God has spoken, two things I have heard: 'Power belongs to you, God, and with you, Lord, is unfailing love'; and, 'You reward everyone according to what they have done.' " Psalm 62:11-12

365 Project - Day 251

"An idea that is not dangerous is unworthy of being called an idea at all." Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde spoke volumes with that quote. I love how it pushes us to the teeter on the edge.

I spent yesterday morning with kids who are preparing to participate in upcoming productions with the 1214 Foundation. We have a team of leadership consultants that have been orchestrated by Yale University to help the kids develop their strengths, work through emotions and gain confidence. I am blessed to have this opportunity to serve as a volunteer facilitator. As I was leading a component on embodying our strengths yesterday, several of the students selected creativity as their core strength. It was wonderful to watch and listen as they described how creativity comes to life for each of them.

One of the great things about the exercise was realizing both that we have different strengths and for those who have the same strength, understanding that we each experience, express and live it in different ways. And since creativity was the strength I used to demonstrate the exercise, I can confidently say that all natural creatives beings are always living on the edge. I would go so far as to say that my rampant creativity is constantly exploding with ideas that often crash and burn, but that's half the fun! I meant to share that yesterday - bummer.

Albert Einstein said, "Creativity is intelligence having fun." I wanted a brilliant, more exciting backdrop for my flower photo the other day. My dining room walls, while lovely, are tiring and starting to bore me. So I had the clever idea of taking the daisies outside to photograph in the garden. Yes - I was cheating. Even so, the situation was not ideal. It was late in the day, but I was determined to capture a creative shot, in as few shots as possible since I was still using my son's camera. It's passable and creative!

How are you embodying your strength today?

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Daisy Creative

"Creativity doesn't wait for the perfect moment, it fashions its own perfect moments out of ordinary ones." Bruce Garrabrandt






EXIF: Nikon D3200
ISO 400
200mm
f8
1/250s

365 Project - Day 250

"Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men! Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for power equal to your tasks." Phillip Brooks

I am exhausted.

I'm not exactly sure how it happened, but I suddenly have found myself oversubscribed and pressed. Somehow, there's too much to do and far too little time. And the work at hand gets more and more complicated.

That being said, I had promised my husband a break this afternoon since the boys were in the city were their theatre group. My husband and I went to see "Spy". It was a delightful, laugh-outloud movie. I was stunned I stayed awake because my husband told me I fell asleep in the middle of our conversation on the way to lunch near the theater. Melissa McCarthy's character fully embodies the quote above throughout the movie. I loved seeing her character rise above.

So as I think about all that I have to do, I could want for less and/or for easier tasks. But what's the fun in that? I believe that too often we give up on ourselves too early and toss the tasks we decide we are incapable of fulfilling. Instead, I am going to pray for the talents, skills and resources necessary to excel and rise above every one. I will be grateful that I am more than enough and also get ready for the next wave of complex (and exciting) tasks ahead.

Along the way, I will reenergize by stopping to smell the flowers, like these fantastic purple and white daisies!

Best wishes!

Today's Photo: Show-Stoppers

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13







EXIF: Nikon 3200
ISO 800
50mm
f13
1/5s

365 Project - Day 249

“Friendship is born at that moment when one man says to another: "What! You too? I thought that no one but myself . . ." C.S. Lewis

As I watched my 14 year old son cavort along the beach with his friends on the 4th of July, I was reminded of myself as a teenager. That was such a carefree and careless existence; mostly free of anxiety and full of discovery. And one of the sweetest moments of youth is finding friends who share your anxieties and your strange dreams.

I took several photos of the kids on the beach, yet I prefer this one of them huddled together. I imagine they are in the midst of some absurd discussion, but it is their moment to have these. As they get older, the discussions will shift, the tone will become far more serious, there will be fewer smiles and more furrowed brows. I wish it did not have to be so. As there are certainly times when I wish I could exchange the former for the latter.

The good news is these carefree, joy-filled days bursting with friendships and exploding with laughter lay the foundation for a strong and happy adult life. And if we're fortunate, these friends of our careless youth will remain friends as we become mindful, responsible adults.

I am adding a photo of the beach a short walk from the kids. These piers looked like crosses a gathering of crosses along the shoreline. Too many symbols to explore, but the one I will use now is a representation of Christ's friendship, longstanding and true in every stage of our life.

Blessings.

Today's Photo: Tight Friends

Friendship Beach

"It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them." Ralph Waldo Emerson







EXIF: Panasonic DMC-FP7
ISO 160
6.3mm
f3.5
1/250s

365 Project - Day 248

"But more than anything else, put God's work first and do what he wants. Then the other things will be yours as well." Matthew 6:33

As I struggled with my first attempt to create a "painterly" effect with one of my photographs, I was reminded that this was a simple secondary task. And while I could spend a lot of time working to perfect the look, I have bigger assignments. So, why was I spending so much time here? The answer was clear - because it was easier to procrastinate and rationalize agonizing over my "fun" daily project, than work my tougher assignments.

When I read today's Bible App verse above, I knew my priorities were mixed up. Something I needed to resolve. By the way, the way I see it, the more I want, the more of His work, I need to accomplish. It's really not difficult at all. It just is.

Best wishes.

Today's Photo: Painted Ledge Flowers

"[God] has created us for a life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do." Ephesians 2:10







EXIF: Nikon D3200
ISO 200
34mm
f8
1/200s

365 Project - Day 247

"Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody." Romans 12:18

I recently shared with a friend that their reaction to a recent event might be more their interpretation of the situation than reality. The other day, a family described an incident that understandably frustrated them. However, I was working on something today and discovered they may be, at least partially, misinformed. The past weeks, I've seen this a bunch. Too much anxiety and discord based on supposition, rather than fact and understanding.

We are a wildly diverse world. That diversity is not just about our outward differences. We come from diverse upbringings and life experiences. Every single one of those experiences impacts how we feel, react and adapt, individually. To me, that's what makes us unique and different. And sometimes that makes truly understanding what's happening immensely challenging. But if we can pause for a moment and think, "people are generally good AND my objective is peace," then discovering that path to peace can be fun and even exciting! Besides, I have found the more difficult the person, the deeper their fears. They are, therefore, in our midst because they need an extra dose of grace from us!

Blessings.

Today's Photo: Diverse Tomatoes

"What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have ... You do not have because you do not ask God."

"I'll put it as urgently as I can: You must get along with each other. You must learn to be considerate of one another, cultivating a life in common." 1Corinthians 1:10








EXIF: Nikon D3200
ISO 200
50mm
f13
1/6s

365 Project - Day 246

"Freedom lies in being bold." Robert Frost

Happy 4th of July! It is Independence Day.

My camera is in the shop for its annual cleaning - something I did not know I needed until recently. I'm also having the autofocus checked. I feel a bit naked without it, but I'll manage. We have a lot of point and shoot cameras in the house. Surely I'll be okay for a few days.

We spent the afternoon at the beach. When we arrived, the clouds cleared and the sun came out. We enjoyed a beautiful afternoon and a lovely evening. I had forgotten the largess of these fireworks. These fireworks displays last about an hour and are in every direction you turn. We were told that at couple was marrying today at one end of the beach and the father of the bride had spent $100,000 on their fireworks. Of course, we kept our eyes peeled. So since there are fireworks everywhere, eventually huge rockets exploded right above my head, arching starlets and raining bright colors across the sky. I jumped many times, worried a dud and/or ashes would land on my head.

I thought this flower was fitting for today since it resembles a sparkler. Taking the photo as a close-up (this is uncropped) gave the flower more dimension, strength and boldness. Similarly, tonight's various fireworks displays along the beach were close-up - bold and beautiful. The displays I have been used to in the past were tame, two dimensional 15 minute shows with the explosions off in the distance. Imagine a homegrown fireworks competition. That's what we experienced tonight.

I think it's fair to say that these families were determined to deliver the best possible evening's entertainment. They stepped up and delivered. Not bad !

Best wishes.

Today's Photo: Sparkler

"If you don't go after what you want, you'll never have it. If you don't ask, the answer is always no. If you don't step forward, you're always in the same place." Nora Roberts







EXIF: Panasonic DMC-FP7
ISO 100
47mm
f3.7
1/60

365 Project - Day 245

The mystery of what happens to the bird food overnight continues to stump me. This time a metal cage was torn down from a branch and completely torn apart. I know the squirrels are cunning and acrobatic, but this just seemed to be too much. Then this evening as we were setting up for a few teenagers to stop by to roast marshmallows, I stopped in my tracks as I stepped out the back door. A very fat animal was crawling down a tree near the remaining feeders. My husband is convinced it is simply a squirrel that has overindulged in my bird food (haha), but I'm telling you - this was a large devil! I knew something untoward was happening back there. It seemed impossible that the squirrels were eating that much food and damaging so much property on their own. I am not forgiving them. I'm sure they called in the calvary, but now I know something else is going on. I'm anxious to find out what that was. I'm thinking now I will feed the birds during the daytime only! It's creepy, I know!

"A great wind is blowing, and that gives you either imagination or a headache." Catherine the Great

On to more interesting things ... As I was walking around the garden on a recent windy afternoon, I spotted this moth hanging on to a blade of monkey grass as though its life was in the balance. I couldn't resist trying to capture the spirit of the moment. The wind was strong and I imagine presented a difficult challenge for this moth. Where does a moth find shelter in the wind?

This moth started me thinking ... when we face turmoil and unsettling situations, we too, can hang on and hide ourselves away. Yet to what end? A safe life isn't often the most fun, nor the most beneficial. Sometimes we have to sail against the wind to arrive at our destination. And other times, we are fortunate to have the wind at our backs. In either case, we are better positioned for success and joy when we are moving, with intention, toward our goals, regardless of the challenges we face. As hard as it is, we have to set aside our fears to get to our purpose.

To be sure, our light cannot shine when we're hanging on upside down under a blade of grass! Move on and shine!

Blessings.

Today's Photo: Winded

"Don't be afraid, for I am with you.
Don't be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand."
Isaiah 41:10






EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 160
50mm
f2
1/350s

365 Project - Day 244

"In all human affairs there are efforts, and there are results, and the strength of the effort is the measure of the result. Chance is not. Gifts, powers, material, intellectual, spiritual possessions are the fruits of effort; they are the thoughts completed, objects accomplished, visions realized." James Allen

After spending the afternoon strolling about the outer edge of the NYU Campus, stopping for lunch in a burger joint that unfortunately will accept my son's dining dollars and visiting the campus bookstore, we went up to Central Park to spend the evening at the Delacorte Theatre. We were blessed with tickets to Shakespeare in the Park, gifted to us by a friend. While the event is free, getting tickets is difficult. We were also treated to a backstage tour. It was a wonderful opportunity for us to visit our friend and be in the park on a perfect evening.

It has been too long since we have taken time to explore Central Park. The park is such a beautiful gem, full of nature in the midst of a hard, concrete city. I was excited by the combination of the late afternoon light peeking through the trees, birds fluttering about and butterflies dancing on our shoulders. And this particular piece of the park is dense - tighter paths with lots of trees and flowers. This is a place where it seems creativity, imagination and enthusiasm can be ignited.

Here's one of the things I read recently about enthusiasm, from W. Clement Stone: "I think you would be interested in knowing what the etymology - the derivation of this word, which is so widely used, really is. It comes from two Greek words and they let you look into the root of this word -- into its basic, fundamental, original meaning. The first is 'Theos,' which means God. The other two words are 'En-Tae.' So that in the early usage of this term among ancient Greeks, it literally meant 'God within you' ... the Divine being who is the author and the source of all goodness and beauty and truth, honesty and love. God is in the heart of the individual who is possessed by a vision ... who burns with ardor ... who is determined to make a dream come true. God is there. God is kindling the fire. It is being kindled by God himself."

I just love that. Imagine that our dreams, regardless of how farfetched they may be, are fueled by God. Now that would stoke you, wouldn't it!

Blessings.

Today's Photo: Imagine

"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." Proverbs 16:3







EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
50mm
f2.8
1/90s

365 Project - Day 243

"God cannot tell lies! And so his promises and vows are two things that can never be changed. We have run to God for safety. Now his promises should greatly encourage us to take hold of the hope that is right in front of us. This hope is like a firm and steady anchor for our souls. In fact, hope reaches behind the curtain and into the most holy place. Jesus has gone there ahead of us, and he is our high priest forever" Hebrews 6:18-20

As I photographed and processed this Gerbera Daisy, my mind fixated on "clarity." I was surprised, but I seemed drawn by this somewhat imperfect, yet crisp, flower to center my thoughts on getting to a degree of clarity that would yield sense of calm. I felt that once I cleared out the cobwebs and settled in, I could shift to "trust." An interesting series of thoughts, right? I simply pulled this singular daisy from a bouquet and felt a bit transformed as I worked through my photographic process. However brief, it's always nice to have that moment absent of fear, anxiety and worry. A moment filled only with hope.

Sometimes, those moments of clarity | trust | hope are more than enough.

Best wishes.

Today's Photo: Hope Secured

"Hope is the thing with feathers, that perches in the soul, and sings the tune without the words, and never stops at all." Emily Dickinson

"Fear betrays our ability to help ourselves by thinking clearly." Wisdom of Solomon 17:12






EXIF: Nikon D7100
ISO 200
50mm
f13
4s