EAGER TO SHOOT

I just joined a local community photography group and I am psyched! I have a hobby again and I'm finding it a refreshing change. I've always enjoyed taking pics, but now there's a sense of purpose beyond documenting the kids' lives.

Every month, we shoot on a theme, this month is flowers. At the meeting later in June, we present our best 5 pics and then do a group vote for the top 5 photographs. This past month's animal theme photo found me lucky enough to win (with this peacock shot)! At my first meeting! Talk about encouragement and motivation.

I've dabbled in photography through my entire life. I grew up in front of the lens of my father's professional photography and learned to smile on cue. You will be hard-pressed to find a shot of me or my sister ever having eyes closed. Ever. But it planted a seed. Through high school, I took photos for the school year book, focusing on sporting events like basketball and spent time in a dark room developing them. Although I've strayed from the development side, I've rarely lived without a camera close by. And although I shun forced, posed, portrait-style pictures (blame dad) I'm glad to have some foundation and understanding of this art form.

Through my newly refreshed photography hobby, I'm reminded how important it is to have a life (though may it be a small one) outside of my kids and parenting responsibilities. We get so focused on what the kids need, what the kids are doing (or not doing) that we don't focus on our OWN needs and what we are NOT doing.

So if you see me stopped by the side of the road, or crouched down in a bed of your flowers, don't mind me...I'm just honing my skills. And hoping for another win.