Thursday, December 29, 2011

Wrapping It Up

Most of the fall we had snow on the ground and frigid temps. Here we are now, only days away from the New Year, and the weather is more like fall than winter. Today's high was nearly 50 and the snow and ice are melting to reveal the remnants of fall colors.



The impatient ice fishermen seem to love fishing more than life itself. The ice is thin and patchy and the water beneath it is deadly cold. No way I'd be out there. I can't decide if it's a sign of hope...or foolishness. 




As I wrap up 2011, my thoughts turn to the year ahead.

I started this blog on Christmas Eve one year ago with the purpose of "forcing" myself to work on my photography with purpose...a 365 project. It's been many things to me...at times frustrating, at times consuming, but mostly fun.  It's given me a vital creative outlet. It's allowed me to make new friends and acquaintances. It's helped me to hone my photo skills and develop some new ones as I experimented with new techniques.

So, what will I do in 2012? Not entirely sure yet.

Definitely keep shooting.

Maybe talk my friend, Sue, into doing another photo-poetry book.

Perhaps find a youth program in which to teach photography.

Do some work for Operation Love Reunited, if they'll have me.

Work on seeing the beauty that surrounds me each and every day.

Express my gratitude for all that I've been given by trying to give back where I can.

Love more. Laugh more. Live better.

p.s. and since it's Thursday, our winter break assignment for Alphabe-Thursday over at Mrs. Jenny's was to do a new year post. Click here to see what the other Alphabetians have to say...

Happy New Year to one and all!



12 comments:

Pondside said...

I'm glad that your title didn't, as I'd feared, mean that the blog was 'a wrap' - glad that you'll keep shooting and posting. The loneliness or perhaps solitude of the fisherman - perfect.

Barbara F. said...

I wish I could come to one of your photography classes. Happy New Year to you, and all the best for a great 2012. I like your list of resolutions. xo

mrs. c said...

I admire that you made the commitment to take photos every day for a year! I think that is the only way to improve and I am sure you can see how beautiful your photos are. I am making the pledge to post 3 times a week with new photos. I am trying hard to say "no to auto" and really learn about my camera, it's tough! Happy new year and keep up the lovely work!

Leovi said...

I really like these photos with that beautiful light on those icy waters. I wish you a happy 2012.

Vern said...

Here's to a stellar 2012 full of more fantastic photos and FOOLISH (my vote) ice fishermen!

~✽Mumsy✽~ said...

Beautiful photos of our universe, and a great way to wrap up for the another year!

Happy New Year to you and your family!

Susan Anderson said...

Another book, huh? Could be interesting...

The rest of the stuff sounds great, too! I definitely think you should teach a photography class.

=)

VK said...

Teach and learn they say.
You are inspirational to me.

Pat said...

Great to hear that your photography will keep moving forward into the New Year...such wonderful goals too.

Our son is a photographer (&guide for photo tours) in Alaska & has taught classes in the Anchorage area...he found it quite fulfilling & hearing the students state how much they had learned made his day - So go for it!!

Wishing you all the very best in 2012.

Ames said...

Well I certainly hope the fisherman realizes the potential situation he is in. Yikes!

I bought a better camera and can't figure out how to take really good pictures with it. I always grab the point and shoot Kodak. Wish there was a class close by that I could learn photgraphy. That and painting. Have a positive New Year!~Ames

Judie said...

I always love seeing your photos! I have told my students that if you want to learn to paint or draw, you must do it EVERY DAY. and not only the once-a-week that you are in class.

Jenny said...

Your 'forced' photography is really lovely. I'm glad you did this. My husband is much better at this art form than I am.

He needs to take a class from you someday!

Sending you warm wishes for a 2012 filled with creativity, joy and lots of lovely things to photograph!