I’m Still Here
December 30, 2024
The year 2024 has not been a good one for this blog—and not much better for my photography. But although I have not posted since February, I have continued, off and on, to take photographs. The subject of most of them has been the grounds of the retirement community where I live. Despite not blogging, I have been faithful in my practice of emailing a photo a day to fellow residents. Their responses have been fulfilling. The quality of these photographs has been uneven, but people like seeing photographs of where they live. Several recipients have told me they now look at our surroundings differently, more intentionally, more mindfully. This pleases me immensely.
Below are 11 photographs taken since February and sent to friends here at Kendal at Oberlin. I’m hoping to blog more before the next February.
I frequently have trouble sleeping. About a week ago I read that 45 minutes a day spent outdoors could promote sleep. But what would I do for those 45 minutes? You know. I have taken my 45-minute walks six of the last eight days, and I have taken the camera with me each time.
So now I’m building quite an inventory of photographs. Do you know the story about the clay pots, relayed in David Bayles and Ted Orland’s book Art and Fear? At 82 I’m still hoping to improve, and a daily photography practice just might help.
I’ve slept better on the days I’ve been out with the camera for 45 minutes. Maybe it’s the time; maybe it’s the photographing.
Romancing Reality 