Some unusual subjects...

One of the things I love to do in my spare time is to read blogs written by friends and family, and also blogs written by successful and well known (some not so well known) photographers. Not only does this last group of people inspire me with their bodies of work, they also enrich me with the tips and advice they freely offer, they give me wonderful ideas to try on my own shoots, and they allow me to live vicariously through them during times like these.

I've been pretty bummed (and bored) lately because things have been really slow for me and my photography business. And for me, taking pictures is like breathing...so when I am not photographing things, it feels like someone is sitting on my chest and crushing the life out of me. Not fun.

I was reading one of my favorite photographer's blogs the other day and came across this post. I thought the idea this photographer had to just appreciate all of the beautiful things around, no matter how insignificant they may seem, to make herself happier was a great idea. I have come to realize - and forget over and over again - that my happiness mainly lies in my hands. If I choose to be happy and proactive, then I will be. If I choose to pity myself and wallow in misery, then there is no hope for me.

So, I decided to try my own "happiness project" today. I ventured no further than twenty feet away from my front door to capture these pictures, simply for the joy of shooting, making art, and appreciating the beauty all around me. I hope these pictures inspire someone out there. Someone who is having a hard time and just needs a little reminder that they are in control of their own destiny.

Life is beautiful. You just have to see it.