Sometimes you just have to do something whimsical. I spent a while tonight getting the lighting and the set up just right for this fun shot of an eyeball ring, a gift given to one of my partners today. In younger years, I don’t think I would have done this little project. I might have felt it a waste of time. But I am learning that moments of fun and creativity do a lot to lift the spirit. Taking time to be creative, even if capricious, is an important part of nurturing the soul. 

President Uchtdorf recently shared some very interesting insights regarding the abilily of all of us to create. He also explained that the creative process is important for you and for me. Click the link below for a short video of his remarks.

In the past I did not consider myself a creative, but in recent years I am finding creativity within me that I never knew existed. I find it uplifting to be part of the creative process.

http://www.lds.org/pages/mormon-messages?lang=eng#create

I am learning to more fully appreciate the natural beauty that is around me. Sometimes I will tune in and realize that there are birds singing close by. And then I realize they have probably been singing for a long time without me realizing they were present. They same is true for beautiful flowers. They are in our daily world but we often don’t “see” them. I am learning to appreciate God’s creations.

As the years fly by, I more fully appreciate moments of tranquility. It is hard to find such peaceful interruptions in our hectic schedules.  We must seek them out. We must act and not be acted upon. If we passively take whatever live brings our way, we will be bonbarded with stimuli that prevent us from connecting with God and the inspired ideas that flow from Him. 

I am grateful for my father. He provides his posterity a wonderful example of “living the good life”. I love his kind and gentle ways. I appreciate his acceptance of and love for everyone who is part of his life. He has given much service throughout his life and especially to his dear, departed, wife-Karlene. He has handled the challenges of life with integrity and respect. I love my dad very much.

Digital photography is in a great season. Camera technology is at unprecedented levels. Photo management and post-processing software offer incredible options. Price of entry into the digital imaging world is affordable for many. Yet, one can get overwhelmed with the continued array of new offerings. One of the new phone apps out by SmugMug is called Camera Awesome. It is a fantastic app that adds functionality to phone cameras and also offers many great post-processing options. One of the most popular filters is called “More Wang”. I am glad to have this one. I think it brings a nice feel to this tennis image.