Music is therapy. Music is my release.... In one of the music Facebook groups I'min, someone asked to name 10 bands that changed your life and why. I couldn't keep it to 10 and I may add more, but here goes.... This was my response: Beastie Boys - 3rd grade in 1986 I got street teamed by someone that was giving out their cassette tapes. I was playing baseball at a park in my hometown in Ohio when someone gave a large group of us their first album. I'm glad my parents were open to letting me listen to it. Turns out, I read in their book 15 years later that they were taking a break from their tour with Madonna and stayed with someone from their production crew that was from my hometown..... crazy. Could have been one of them handing out those tapes... that started my love for music Living Colour - obsessed with Vernon Reids guitar in 7th and 8th grade. Public Enemy - 8th grade.... I had been listening to rap and hip hop for 4-5 years now but Fear of a Black Planet was way different than what I've ever heard before. Smashing Pumpkins - Siamese Dream, Gish, and Pisces Iscariot were the soundtrack to my high school days. The Pharcyde- labcabincalifornia introduced me to J Dilla and his amazing beats. That album was played almost daily in college. Incubus - S.C.I.E.N.C.E was played almost in its entirety the first time I saw them. Free show in New Orleans and only about 15-20 people saw them kill it on stage. They acted like there were 20k in Jimmy's Uptown. Radiohead - I had been a fan in the 90s but KID A is my favorite album ever. The first time I heard it I worked at a CD store and my boss handed me tix to a private listening party pre launch of the album. Me and a buddy went to a hotel downtown New Orleans and they put a couple hundred of us in a conference room and lit insence, turned down the lights, and made us lay in comfortable bean bags. They cranked up the volume, told us to be quiet, and listen to the album in its entirety before taking questions after it. What an experience. I'm sure it was put on by the record label. Mahavishnu Orchestra - the most under rated band of all time. I saw John Mclaughlin perform with Chick Corea and was mesmerized by his guitar skills that night. It was when they made the 5 Peace Band album together with some heavy hitters. The Meters - the godfathers of Funk. The best rhythm section of all time and the true sound of New Orleans. I was able to catch a show in Denver when the original 4 members reunited briefly in the mid 2000s. Fela Kuti - all I can say is WOW. he's a musical God. Introduced me to Afrobeat. Deftones - the first time I saw them they were opening for 311. I never heard of them before. Adrenaline had just come out. Chino stage dived like 6 times and I was floored by their stage presence. They were my new favorite band after that performance. Circa Survive - Juturna got me through Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and my helped me heal. Hum - top 5 band for me. They have everything I love about music in their sound. Good lyrics, riffs, solid rhythm section. Textures and tones that I love. Ups and downs...quiet and heavy. Holy Fawn - my favorite band since 2018. Amazing live. They sounded like the band I was looking for, for years. When I heard Death Spells I was floored. And they keep putting out solid music. Mars volta - de-loused in the Comatorium was introduced to me by a friend that was so excited for me to listen to it. He pressed play, and my jaw was on the ground for the next hour What are yours?

A lot of times, when family and friends look at my photos, I hear a similar phrase, “How did you even notice that?” Or, “I can’t believe you even saw that.” And I usually reply with, “ I look closely.” It took time to foster this mindset of 'Mindfulness,' (one of the advantages of "Therapeutic Photography". See link below to Dre Erwin's post about all five advantages.). It meant slowing down, stopping, being quiet. Basically, being purposeful about finding things that amaze, inspire and point to the Creator who made them. And quite frankly, it makes me feel very joyful and thankful when I discover something new like this Webworm Moth. It’s exciting too, to see the details and intricacies of something I love and see often, like my great niece’s eye. There's even a reflection of the window she's looking through in it. The macro lens has really helped. I would have never been able to take a photo of these snowflakes on my coat jacket with out it. I’m not exaggerating how awestruck I was not only when I was taking that photo, but even now downloading it here. Which advantage/s listed in Dre's article below resonate for you? I'd love to have a conversation. -Cindy https://www.joinphotovibe.com/forum/659955b07f51880010ba530b/therapeutic-photography-what-s-in-it-for-me?postId=659df3b009f16300103fcc48&origin=notification #therapeuticphotography #lookclosely #macrophotograpy #mindfulness #photovibe

Therapeutic Photography: Cat-Ice & Connections For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved taking pictures; a gift both my parents gave me. I grew up in the era of slide projectors and grainy home movies. After capturing special moments at a gathering of any kind, Mom and Dad would set up the projector, take paintings off a wall, pop some corn and invite family and friends to enjoy the show. Abundant love and laughter filled that room and our hearts. All these years later, I treasure those memories. I’ve shown my great nieces and nephews (ages 6-15) many of my photos: frogs, rocks (we're all rockhounds) and of course themselves to name a few, and it’s like a miniature version of those home movie parties of my childhood. The best part? They’ve begun taking pictures themselves. They can’t even wait until they see me. They’ll ask their moms to text me the photo/s. The first time my oldest great-niece, So, sent me a photo was back in 2021, when she was in 4th grade. It was just after Thanksgiving. At our family get together, I had showed her and her sister some photos of cat-ice I had seen earlier that week. They thought it was cool looking, just as I knew they would. Only a few days later, our world was rocked by the heart-wrenching news of a local school shooting. Before heading to school, their mom had to somehow talk about this horrific tragedy, pray with and comfort these little ones. After many tears and lots of questions, as they were leaving the house, So spotted some cat-ice in a hole on their driveway. She begged her mom for the phone to take a photo and send it to me. I was so grateful for the photos of the cat-ice I had noticed, captured and showed to my great nieces on Thanksgiving. Because on one of the hardest days of their small lives, it gave them something to connect to--happier times, safe times, a great aunt who loves them, a sense of wonder and beauty, and even hope. #therapeuticphotography #photographicconnections #photovibe #connections

https://youtu.be/YS299z6ahsk?si=627O3y5UB6qxlO8C Rick Rubin has influenced most of us in some way and you may not even recognize his name. If you've listened to ANY in any genre music in the last 40 years, chances are you have listened to an album that Rick has been a part of. If you do a quick Google search of "Rick Rubin albums" you'll find something that you love on that list. Where Rick excels at is coaching people to be creative. Check out the podcast link on this post to have your mind blown in his thought processes and how to succeed in life in general. Take care of yourself first! He's a treasure and one of the most influential people in the world.

Photographing a sunrise can enhance mindfulness by encouraging you to be present in the moment, observe details, and appreciate the beauty of nature. It prompts a focus on the changing light, colors, and textures, fostering a sense of calm and connection to the surroundings. I woke up yesterday morning and saw stars in the sky. When I went to bed the night before, we had snow falling and it was still very cloudy. I knew by the clearing skies that I might have an opportunity to capture something beautiful on this morning so I started preparing. I got my camera set to the optimal settings, charged my batteries, and located my warm clothing. This time of year can be very dark for long periods of time in Alaska. But I've always been a believer in "out of darkness becomes light" which to me often conveys the idea that even in difficult or challenging situations, there is potential for positive change or enlightenment. It's a metaphorical expression highlighting resilience and growth. I didn't expect this morning to be beautiful as it was the night before and I wanted to take advantage of the possible upcoming opportunity to shoot the beautiful scenery around me. Capturing an unexpected sunrise adds an element of surprise, amplifying mindfulness. The spontaneity encourages you to be fully present, heightening awareness of the unexpected beauty and creating a unique moment to appreciate and savor. I now can savor this morning forever. @toddgravenphotography https://linktr.ee/toddgravenphotography

As we approach the twilight of another year, the air is infused with a sense of anticipation and reflection. The countdown to New Year's is not merely about ticking seconds; it's about cherishing the moments that lead us into a brand new chapter of our lives. Let's embark on this countdown, savoring the top 5 moments that pave the way for new beginnings. 5. Reflective Resolutions A flicker of nostalgia fills the air as we look back on the journey of the past year. It's a time for reflection, for embracing the lessons learned, celebrating accomplishments, and pondering upon personal growth. Amidst this introspection, we set intentions for the upcoming year – shaping resolutions that resonate with our aspirations and dreams, setting the stage for the new adventures that await. 4. Quality Time with Loved Ones The joy of the season is magnified when shared with those we hold dear. Whether gathered around the table or connected virtually across miles, these moments with loved ones are precious. Laughter reverberates, heartfelt conversations flow, and memories are woven, as we reminisce about the year's journey, strengthening the bonds that tie us together. 3. Mindful Moments of Solitude In the midst of the festive hustle, finding solace in moments of mindfulness becomes invaluable. Stepping away from the clamor, we embrace tranquility. Whether through meditation, nature walks, or simply indulging in our favorite pastime, these moments of solitude rejuvenate our spirits, offering the respite needed to recharge before the grand celebration. 2. Preparing for Celebration The anticipation mounts as we prepare for the grand finale. The house is adorned with festive décor, aromas of special dishes fill the air, and plans for activities or games are set in motion. The thrill builds, setting the stage for the upcoming revelry and the countdown to bid adieu to the current year. 1. The Countdown and Jubilation As the clock inches closer to midnight, hearts beat in unison across the globe. Gathered with friends, family, or in spirit, the countdown commences. The final moments of the year unfold amidst laughter, shared glances, and nostalgic reflections. With the stroke of midnight, jubilation erupts – toasts are raised, hugs are exchanged, and fireworks light up the sky, marking the arrival of the New Year. This countdown to New Year's isn’t just a sequence of seconds ticking away; it's an amalgamation of moments that encapsulate reflection, connection, mindfulness, and jubilation. Each of these moments threads into the grand tapestry of life, guiding us into a year filled with hope, aspirations, and the promise of new beginnings. As we bid adieu to the old and embrace the new, let's carry forth the spirit of these moments, crafting a year brimming with joy, growth, and cherished memories.

In the darkness stands a tree, Alone and strong, yet silently, No company but the cold night air, No solace but the stars up there. Its branches reach up to the sky, As if to grasp the world up high, But in the blackness it stands alone, A single sentinel, a wooden throne. But every once in a little while, The aurora comes with a gentle smile, And bathes the tree in a wondrous light, A colorful dance in the dark of night. The tree stands tall, proud and bright, In the midst of the aurora's might, And for a moment, it's not alone, But with the beauty of the world shown. So even in the darkest hour, When the night holds all its power, The tree stands strong, and knows its worth, For it's blessed with the aurora's birth. The poem "Aurora Borealis in Canada - Gift to the Solitary Tree" paints a vivid picture of a lone tree standing strong in the darkness, with no one to keep it company but the stars. The poem beautifully describes the tree's branches reaching up to the sky as if to grasp the world up high, showcasing its resilience and steadfastness even in the bleakest of moments. But then comes the aurora, a wondrous display of colorful lights that bathes the tree in a new light, transforming it from a solitary figure to a majestic one. The tree, standing tall and proud, is no longer alone but surrounded by the beauty of the world around it. This poem evokes a sense of hope and beauty in the midst of darkness and loneliness, reminding us that even the most solitary of beings can be blessed with moments of light and wonder. The accompanying photo features a lone tree standing in a vast and dark landscape, with the aurora illuminating the sky above it, creating a breathtaking contrast of light and darkness. Hope you enjoyed it! Discover more about the enchanting Aurora Borealis in Canada! Click here to delve deeper into the captivating world of this natural wonder. Dre Erwin Photography

Saskatchewan has gained a reputation as “The Land of Living Skies” across Canada, thanks to the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets that frequently illuminate the horizon. In addition to these natural wonders, the province's skies at night offer an equally impressive sight, featuring unobstructed views of billions of stars and the mesmerizing northern lights. To learn more about experiencing the northern lights in Saskatchewan, keep reading The aurora borealis, or northern lights, are created by solar activity. Charged particles from the sun make their way towards Earth and collide with gaseous particles in the planet's atmosphere, resulting in displays of vibrant green, red, violet, and blue lights. This phenomenon is typically observed at or around the magnetic poles of the northern and southern hemispheres. Experiencing the northern lights is an emotional and almost spiritual encounter that will leave you completely captivated, whether it's your first or thousandth time witnessing this cosmic phenomenon. During a lively display, the sky bursts with color as streaks of green, and occasionally purple and red lights pulse and flicker rapidly, unfurling in pillar-like arcs from one horizon to the other. The undulating swirls of the aurora borealis are hypnotic, as they gracefully sway and twirl, their colors blending in an intricate dance on a glittering dancefloor high above the Earth's surface. The aurora borealis, or northern lights, are created by solar activity. Charged particles from the sun make their way towards Earth and collide with gaseous particles in the planet's atmosphere, resulting in displays of vibrant green, red, violet, and blue lights. This phenomenon is typically observed at or around the magnetic poles of the northern and southern hemispheres. Determining when to witness the northern lights can be challenging as they are unpredictable. It's difficult to anticipate when they will appear and how long they will last. Sometimes, the shows may start weak but continue all night long. Other times, you may experience a brief but intense five-minute display that suddenly vanishes. There are also rare yet remarkable occasions where the lights blaze across the sky in every direction throughout the entire night, making it an exceptional event. For instance, when the northern lights are visible in the southern direction, it's considered a spectacular display. Behold! There exist numerous apps at your disposal that you can utilize to obtain the aurora forecast. Many of these apps retrieve information from the esteemed National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Fear not, for regardless of whether you are an Android or Apple user, finding an app is a breeze! Simply search for "Aurora" and select an app with the most downloads to uncover the mystical secrets of the Northern Lights. How to See the Northern Lights in Saskatchewan Verily, the key to beholding the magnificence of the aurora is to keep a vigilant eye on the forecasts. When the prediction is favorable, simply venture forth and sit in quiet reverence, waiting to witness the spectacle unfold before you. Should you harbor the hope of gazing upon the northern lights in Saskatchewan, it is imperative that you journey northward and escape the suffocating grasp of light pollution. As you traverse towards the northernmost reaches, the likelihood of encountering a stunning display of the lights amplifies. It is said that the lights grace the skies of Saskatoon more frequently than those of Regina, yet they appear even more frequently in Prince Albert National Park, La Ronge, Hudson Bay, Meadow Lake, and other such northern destinations. forecasts, for they can often lag behind in their predictions. In most cases, if the forecast indicates a favorable viewing opportunity, you can rest assured that the northern lights have made an appearance in recent times. Therefore, always keep your eyes peeled for the mesmerizing aurora, for they may grace the skies unexpectedly and delight your senses beyond measure. Behold, mortal! The question that plagues your mind is one that has confounded many a seeker of the Northern Lights - "What is the precise hour when the celestial lights will grace the skies of Saskatchewan?" Alas, I must inform you that there is no straightforward answer to this query. The appearance of the aurora is fickle, and its schedule is ever-changing. While there are certain times of the year when the likelihood of witnessing the lights increases, such as during the winter months, the precise hour of their appearance remains shrouded in mystery. Nevertheless, you can increase your chances of experiencing this wonder of the cosmos by keeping track of the forecasts and venturing towards areas devoid of light pollution. Remain patient, for the aurora may make an appearance at any moment and fill your soul with awe and inspiration. Where to See the Northern Lights in Saskatchewan Hark! The quest for the perfect vantage point to behold the wondrous Northern Lights of Saskatchewan is one that many have embarked upon, but few have conquered. Fear not, for the land of living skies provides an ideal trifecta of optimal conditions to witness the stunning auroral displays. Whether you choose to bask in the warmth of a cozy cabin, venture out onto a frozen lake, or simply behold the spectacle from the comfort of your own vehicle, the awe-inspiring sheets of vibrant color shall not disappoint. Saskatchewan is one of the best places in the world to experience the stunning natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights. If you're planning to visit in 2023 and want to catch a glimpse of these mesmerizing lights, here are some of the best locations to consider: Prince Albert National Park: This park is a Dark Sky Preserve, making it an ideal location to view the Northern Lights. Head to the Waskesiu area for the best views. La Ronge: This northern community is known for its frequent Northern Lights sightings. Plus, its location on the shores of Lac La Ronge provides a beautiful backdrop for the lights. Hudson Bay: Located in the northeast corner of Saskatchewan, Hudson Bay is a great place to view the lights due to its high latitude and low light pollution. Meadow Lake Provincial Park: Another Dark Sky Preserve, Meadow Lake is located in the northwest part of Saskatchewan and offers excellent opportunities for Northern Lights viewing. Regina and Saskatoon: While these cities are farther south than the other locations on this list, they still offer opportunities to see the Northern Lights on clear nights when there is strong activity. No matter where you choose to go, remember to dress warmly and bring a camera to capture the beauty of the Northern Lights in Saskatchewan. It must be noted that the northern lights are a mercurial phenomenon, and their appearance is dependent on the strength of the geomagnetic storm and sky conditions in terms of clouds or fog. Nevertheless, anywhere that lies far enough north and has a clear view of the sky can be a potential viewing location. Venture forth, intrepid explorer, and let the Northern Lights cast their spell upon you. Additionally, Saskatchewan is home to several Dark Sky Preserves, which offer even better opportunities to view the northern lights. To make the most of your viewing experience, you can download apps that provide information on the current aurora activity and the best times and locations for viewing. Some of these apps even have guides for finding the nearest Dark Sky Preserve. With a bit of planning and luck, you can witness one of nature's most spectacular shows in the Land of Living Skies. Good Luck!

Embracing Gratitude, Seeking Beauty, and Finding Joy in Every Frame. As the holiday season envelops us in its warmth, let us pause to appreciate the simple yet profound joys that surround us. At Dre Erwin Photography, we believe in capturing not just moments but the essence of gratitude, the beauty of seeking positivity, and the art of looking up in life. This Christmas, let's celebrate the magic found in cherishing what we have, in glimpsing at the beauty that adorns our everyday, and in focusing on the brightness that life offers. May the lens of gratitude frame your days, and may the pursuit of beauty guide your journey. From our passion for photography to your hearts, we wish you a Merry Christmas and joyous holidays. Let's treasure each frame of life's beautiful tapestry together. Happy holidays from Dre Erwin Photography.

In my two decades as a nurse, I’ve learned that healthcare extends far beyond following routines and protocols. It’s about embracing a mindset that transcends the conventional — a mindset that sees hope even in the moments where it might seem elusive. Imagine if this perspective wasn’t just mine alone but the cornerstone of every healthcare provider’s ethos. Picture a landscape where nurses, doctors, therapists, and all involved in patient care were encouraged to pause, reassess, and explore unconventional methods to ensure holistic and inventive patient care. "Hope is the guiding light that illuminates the path to healing, inspiring a healthcare landscape where compassion, innovation, and the power of possibility converg." - Unknown The possibilities are boundless when management fosters and encourages this mindset. It’s not about self-promotion or tooting our own horns — it’s about envisioning a healthcare system where the very essence of nurturing hope is ingrained in every practice. When hope becomes the heartbeat of healthcare, innovation flourishes. It’s a vision where compassion and creativity intertwine, where doubts are met with solutions and challenges are opportunities for growth. At DreErwinPhoto.com, I delve into the power of inspiration, therapeutic photography, and the Law of Attraction. This isn’t just a dream — it’s a potential reality worth aspiring to. It’s about redefining patient care and creating an environment where the power of hope transforms the healing journey. So, let’s dare to imagine a healthcare system where nurturing hope isn’t just a concept but a way of life. Together, let’s paint a landscape where the collective embrace of hope brings forth a new era of compassion, innovation, and healing.

In our journey towards mental wellness, we often seek tools and techniques to navigate life's challenges. Coping skills serve as invaluable resources, empowering us to manage stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. Alongside these skills, the Law of Attraction, a principle rooted in the power of positive thinking, offers a unique perspective on shaping our reality. Understanding how coping strategies intertwine with the Law of Attraction can unlock a powerful synergy, fostering mental wellness and resilience. The Role of Coping Skills Coping skills are the pillars upon which we build our ability to handle life's trials. Techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, and exercise form the foundation of a resilient mindset. When we incorporate coping strategies into our daily routine, we equip ourselves with the tools necessary to navigate difficult moments. The Law of Attraction in Mental Wellness The Law of Attraction posits that our thoughts and intentions shape our reality. By cultivating positive thoughts and focusing on desired outcomes, we can manifest those very experiences into our lives. When applied to mental wellness, this principle encourages us to visualize the state of well-being we aspire to achieve. Harmonizing Coping Strategies and the Law of Attraction Combining coping skills with the Law of Attraction can be transformative. Visualizing a stress-free state while practicing mindfulness or employing deep breathing techniques can reinforce a positive mindset, amplifying the effectiveness of both practices. Adding Therapeutic Photography to the Mix One intriguing way to reinforce these practices is through therapeutic photography. Capturing moments of gratitude or serenity through photography not only aids in mindfulness but also serves as a visual reminder of the positivity we seek to attract. Checklist: Practicing Coping Strategies and the Law of Attraction Use this checklist to incorporate coping strategies and the Law of Attraction into your routine: Start your day with positive affirmations. Practice mindfulness or meditation for at least 5 minutes daily. Engage in physical activity for 30 minutes, three times a week. Identify and set healthy boundaries in your personal and professional life. Capture one moment of gratitude or serenity through photography each week. Conclusion Embracing coping strategies alongside the Law of Attraction opens a doorway to enhanced mental wellness. By incorporating these practices into our daily routines and exploring innovative methods like therapeutic photography, we can actively manifest positivity and resilience in our lives. As we navigate the complexities of existence, remember: our thoughts are powerful tools that shape our reality. Let's harness this power to cultivate mental wellness and invite positivity into our lives.

Gazing at those celestial arcs, it's like witnessing time itself, swift and unyielding. Stars streak across the canvas of the night, painting a story of a clock that ticks silently. In our stillness, life persists in its graceful dance, reminding us that existence is a continuum. It's about grabbing hold of those fleeting moments, knowing that our legacy, like the stars' trails, is crafted by the moments we embrace. And as we navigate the vivid hues of the Aurora Borealis, isn't it a bit like navigating life—ephemeral, yet eternally beautiful? During this festive season, as we celebrate, remember the significance of each fleeting moment. Perhaps through the merchandise on my site, we can not only celebrate the beauty of these moments captured but also extend a hand in raising awareness about mental health, nurturing compassion for ourselves and others. Together, let's paint a brighter, more understanding world—one moment at a time.