Cannon Beach, Oregon

Probably one of the most breath taking sights I have ever photographed. Love the Oregon Coast.

THE JOURNEY IS THE DESTINATION

Dan Eldon was such a pioneer in the area of journaling. This post is dedicated to an amazing book of Dan's personal journals published after his tragic death. Following are some words written by his mother, taken from the introduction of THE JOURNALS OF DAN ELDON. 

 "My son, Dan Eldon, a Reuters Photographer, was stoned to death in Somalia in July 1993 by a mob reacting to the United Nations bombing raid on the suspected headquarters of General Mohammed Farah Aidid. Only twenty-two when he died, Dan had already achieved prominence for his work as a war photographer. But his photographs told only half the story. The other half lay hidden away in seventeen black-bound journals filled with collages, drawings, writings, and photographs."

    Dan's actual journals have been on exhibit throughout the world. It would be worth your while to check this book out.I treasure it.

A Walk Along Puget Sound

Aspen

One summer's day, we were driving through the winding roads leading into Aspen Colorado. I looked through my side window and noticed the amazingly beautiful sun light shining through the trunks of a forest full of Aspen Trees. The road was a dangerous place to stop a vehicle, so time was of the essence. I quickly pointed my camera through the open window, took two shots, and this is what developed.

CHARLESTON HARBOR SAIL SCHOOL

While staying on my sister's boat in Charleston this past summer, came across a Sail Boat School. Loved how the tiny sail boats were lined up in order by their number. The repetition made for a nice shot. A warm image for a winter's day. Looking forward to visiting Charleston again soon.

RAINCOATS ON A SUNNY DAY

The guest entrance at Middle Beach Lodge on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. One of my more straight forward yet favorite photos. Due to the abundance of rain in the area, many days this entrance is empty and void of any raincoats or galoshes. But this particular afternoon, not a single cloud in the sky. The raincoats and galoshes were lined up neatly in a row. A great photo opportunity.

More Fun after the Journal is Complete

Journal page made from "goodies" I found while traveling

Journal Paper designed from throw away part of Polaroid Transfers....Europe Photos

Collage made from travel photos of Paris

Once my journals are made, I have the fun of filling them up with my life. I seem to do better with images rather than words, so I concentrate on making collages out of travel photos. I love to make Polaroid Transfers and  design papers for the inside of my journal covers. The paper pictured above is one that I designed using copies of the unused portion of the Polaroid Transfers(the part you usually throw away). I then assemble the photos into grids and shrink them down to tiny size, just suitable for the journals. This is my personal favorite, because it reminds me of so many fun trips.

MY LOVE FOR JOURNALS

Several years ago I was introduced to the art of making journals by a good friend, Professor Jo VanArkel. It was an experience that affected me both personally and artistically. Until then, I had't realized how someone could actually develop a passion for creativity. I hadn't realized, it was possible to begin making a journal early in the evening, and the time pass quickly far into the early morning hours before deciding to take a break.  I hadn't realized, I would receive such a sense of accomplishment from making something that someone else might cherish and fill the pages inside with their own life and creativity. It does seem odd in this day of Smart Phones and Ipads, that I would love such a simple leather object, in which each page would need to be hand sewn and bound....or then again is it? Thank you Jo, for such a gift.

Winter at the Lake

One of my favorite places to spend time is at the cabin on the lake. We pass by this wonderful view during our daily walks.Its personality changes through out the different seasons. Not sure which season I like best. Maybe you can decide through later posts. 

LIFE BOOK 2012

Stepping out of my comfort zone and participating in a year long art class called "Life Book 2012". The class will be taught by several internationally known artists from all parts of the world. The original lesson was my first attempt at portraiture. At the end of the year, I and hundreds of other students from pretty much everywhere, will assemble all the art and create our own Life Book. I'll keep you posted on the year's journey ahead.