Ordinary Sunset

Last night I watched a documentary on National Geographic photographers. Each of their stories, and especially their photographs, were inspiring. I enjoy watching these types of shows because I figure I could learn something.

As a creative hobby I enjoy taking pictures because while growing up I dreamed of being an artist, and I did study art at one time. I worked as a graphic designer for almost twenty years. My work could in no way compare to those professionals who spend their lives in the field taking pictures, yet I learned in art class: To be a great painter one must paint a hundred pictures and eventually will wind up with a few good ones.

I've been asking myself lately whether I have a "passion" for anything. Then it hit me as I was driving home after an Al-Anon meeting, and a trip to the grocery store shopping for dinner. Having not eaten since the bowl of cereal I had for breakfast, I was really hungry.

But today, more important than anything else, I realized I was driving through my favorite time to photograph. Mesmerized by long shadows and the golden haze of a falling sun, I'm always and continually surprised at what comes next. I don't go anywhere without my camera so I ventured up a nearby hill instead of going home to cook. I thought it would be just another day of capturing an ordinary sunset. But I don't think so.

If nothing else it gives me great joy. Welcome to my world and thank you for looking. I took 107 pictures this week. These are the seven that I think are "lucky" shots.

Every day matters.