Spent, and gathering

[Magnolia petals; 7:15pm, 7/29/08]

Another busy work day. Just one more left this week since I'm taking Friday off, comp time. I could use more, but there are deadlines and also an uncertain apartment move schedule this summer, so I've been holding onto my vacation allotment to spend on packing and moving, as well as time to visit my dad. Still, a three-day weekend is something to look forward to.

Meanwhile, I've been reminded of how much the habit of walking around with a camera has changed my life... what I notice when I'm out and about, even with no camera in hand... the changing sky, reflected light on distant buildings, a flash of flitting wings, detritus of human existence, surprises of everyday things, connections made, and lost. It influences what I choose to do with my spare time, craving and searching for beauty in many forms, delicate or harsh, natural or urban... what I notice of composition in film, and scenes that play through my dreams. I run late, caught and absorbed, lose track of what people are saying, my chattering mind stops, in fascination or inconsequence.

[Corner of Common St., Belmont; 7pm, 4/29/08]

Comments

[mb]

What a gorgeous shot of the magnolia tree — such richness! I agree, walking around with a camera has changed the way I see things, too — and not just when I have a camera. It's altered the ways I look at the world and I'm glad of it.

[Dave]

Agreed about walking with a camera - and damn, what a great fallen-blossom shot!

[mm]

Lovely photographs and a good summary of why I too walk around with a camera.

Enjoy your well-earned long weekend. Do exactly what you want to do. No shoulds or oughts, or not too many of them anyway ...

[Sara]

Oh, how I love that picture of the magnolia tree! Magnificent!

I also love the idea of the camera training you to hunt for beauty everywhere. So happy for you. May it just go on and on. :)

[leslee]

Thanks, all. I debated putting up the magnolia photo - wasn't sure it worked. Hey, you never know how things will come across to other people! Anyway, glad you liked it. Probably it was more impressive "live." :-)