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Addiction and mental health disorders affect millions of people worldwide on a daily basis, but recovery is possible despite being a lengthy and demanding process. One unconventional yet effective tool that has helped many individuals overcome these challenges is night photography. This therapeutic form of photography provides a peaceful and serene environment for capturing natural wonders such as the aurora borealis. It offers a creative outlet for individuals struggling with addiction, providing respite from daily life's stresses and triggers. Therapeutic photography is not only effective in addiction recovery, but it can also play a crucial role in preventing addiction and promoting overall mental health and wellbeing. Regular engagement in this activity can lead to the development of healthy coping mechanisms and stress management strategies. Moreover, therapeutic photography is an affordable and accessible form of therapy that requires only a camera and an open mind. It can be done alone or with a group, making it flexible and adaptable for individuals from all walks of life. The Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that is a spectacular display of beauty, is visible in high-latitude regions such as Norway, Canada, and Alaska. For individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges, witnessing the Northern Lights can be a powerful experience that provides a sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the world around them. To capture pictures of the Aurora Borealis with a phone or camera, one should choose a location with low light pollution, use a tripod, a high ISO setting, a wide-angle lens, and adjust exposure settings as needed. Experimentation with different settings is encouraged to capture the perfect shot. In conclusion, night photography, the Northern Lights, and the Law of Attraction are potent tools that can help individuals develop greater self-awareness, process their emotions, and find inspiration and hope on their path to healing from addiction and mental health challenges. Therapeutic photography is an accessible form of therapy that requires only a camera and an open mind. You can start this activity on your own or with a group of friends, no matter where you live. Simply grab your camera or smartphone, find a location with low light pollution, and start capturing the beauty of the night sky. Experiment with different camera settings to find what works best for you and enjoy the process of capturing images that inspire and uplift you. To obtain further information, you can reach out to Dre Erwin or refer to the following links. https://theoneproject.co/therapeutic-photography/ https://www.headwayclinic.ca/therapeutic-photography-how-visual-art-can-be-healing/ https://blog.depositphotos.com/therapeutic-photography.html

Both 12 years of age, friends Jaredan Smith and Caleb Smith from the Pinehouse Photography Club, join elder Donald Boyd while he checks on his snares near Pinehouse Lake. Donald Boyd, 61 years of age says he has been trapping since he was 20. "It was taught to me by my parents and "it's a way of life for me" Boyd says, " I usually set my snares and then go check them every 3-4 days". Boyd uses the rabbits and what he catches to feed his family, friends and elders. "It has been a part of our culture for thousands of years...to live off the land and share with others", Boyd. An important part of trapping and hunting is sharing with other people from the community. "When someone has food, everyone shares". Connecting youth to culture: "We wanted to use photography to help youth connect with traditional ways of life," explains Erwin. "By taking photographs, young people are able to not only experience things they might not see every day, but they are also able to produce something that will help preserve traditions that may be lost over time." Erwin. As he proceeded to check on the about 50 snares and traps he had set out, Boyd gladly encouraged the youth to join him. "It gives us more appreciation and respect for our culture" Jaredan Smith The party discovered a rabbit still alive in a snare during their hike. "I've only ever seen this happen once," Jaredan says, "but I've never seen a live rabbit caught before." During their walk along a dimly lighted track about a kilometer long, the teenagers discovered three rabbits caught in snares, one of which was still alive. "It was terrible to watch how the bunnies were murdered," Celeb adds, referring to Boyd's fast slaughter. "It's part of our culture," Boyd says. "Sometimes the rabbits or animals are still alive and have to be killed." "It was a lot of fun" says Caleb. "I can't wait to go out again!". It was "really enjoyable. We were able to get outside, get some exercise, take pictures and be able to be a part of this!" Jaredan. "I want to get more youth from the club involved" Jaredan. Therapeutic photography is used by the Pinehouse Photography Club to help young people talk about mental health. The organization also use photographic skills to assist young people in connecting with cultural events. "Going out and taking pictures has a greater meaning for children. They make connections with elders and traditional ways of life while capturing memories and moments that will last a lifetime " says Erwin. "We find that youth are happier when they feel like they belong," Erwin explains. "It feels fantastic to be a part of this and to be able to contribute by shooting pictures," says club member Charlene Halkett, "it helps us connect with tradition." Empowering First Nations and Metis communities through photography not only provides a platform for cultural expression and preservation but also enables individuals to share their stories and perspectives with the world. By capturing the beauty of the Northern Lights and other aspects of nature and culture, First Nations and Metis photographers can showcase their unique perspectives and experiences, challenge stereotypes, and contribute to a greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures. Through photography, these communities can reclaim their narratives and promote positive change, while celebrating their rich history and mythology surrounding the Northern Lights.

Canada's North is a vast and rugged land, where nature reigns supreme and human settlements are scarce. For those who love photography, it's a dream come true, with endless opportunities to capture breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and the mesmerizing northern lights. But photographing the North can be a challenging task, especially at night. The lack of light pollution means that the stars shine brighter than ever, but it also means that you need to know how to work with low light conditions to get the perfect shot. Here are some tips to help you master night photography in Canada's North: Choose the right location: The North is full of stunning locations that are perfect for night photography. From the ice-covered tundra to the snow-capped mountains, there's no shortage of subjects to capture. Research your location beforehand to find the best spots for your shoot. Get the right gear: Night photography requires some specialized equipment, such as a tripod, a fast lens, and a remote shutter release. Make sure you have everything you need before you set out on your shoot. Master the exposure triangle: Night photography is all about balancing ISO, aperture, and shutter speed to get the perfect exposure. Experiment with different settings until you find the right balance for your shot. Use the northern lights to your advantage: The northern lights are one of the most spectacular sights in the North, and they make for incredible photo opportunities. Make sure to keep an eye on the aurora forecast and be ready to capture the show when it starts. Be prepared for the cold: The North can be brutally cold, especially at night. Dress in layers, bring hand warmers, and make sure your camera batteries are fully charged. Living in Canada's North is a unique and rewarding experience, especially for photographers. From the stunning natural landscapes to the awe-inspiring northern lights, the North offers endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the wilderness at night. With the right gear, knowledge, and preparation, you can take your night photography to the next level and create stunning images that will last a lifetime.

The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is a phenomenon that should be experienced in person to truly understand its beauty and magic. From the bright and vivid colors of green, pink and blue, to the ever-changing shapes, the Northern Lights are an amazing sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Introduction to the Northern Lights The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light display that can be seen in the night sky in certain parts of the world. It is caused by the interaction between the Earth’s magnetic field and solar particles that are released from the sun. The particles are drawn towards the Earth’s magnetic field and when they collide with atoms in the atmosphere, it causes the release of energy in the form of light. This light is then visible in the night sky and can be seen from many different parts of the world. The Northern Lights are most commonly seen in the northern hemisphere in countries such as Canada, Alaska, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. However, they can also be seen in other parts of the world such as Australia, New Zealand, and even the United States. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest. The Northern Lights are most visible in the late evening and early morning hours, when the sky is clear and the air is still. Seeing the Northern Lights is a unique and unforgettable experience that should not be missed. What Causes the Northern Lights? The Northern Lights are caused by the interaction between the Earth’s magnetic field and solar particles that are released from the sun. These particles are drawn towards the Earth’s magnetic field and when they collide with atoms in the atmosphere, it causes the release of energy in the form of light. This light is then visible in the night sky and can be seen from many different parts of the world. The color of the Northern Lights is determined by the type of atom that is being struck by the solar particles. Oxygen atoms produce green and yellow lights, nitrogen atoms produce blue and purple lights, and rarer atoms can produce a variety of other colors. The intensity of the light depends on the strength of the solar particles and the size of the Earth’s magnetic field. The Northern Lights can also be affected by the weather. A clear, dark night sky is the best for seeing the Northern Lights, and clouds and light pollution can reduce visibility. Where and When to See the Northern Lights The Northern Lights can be seen in many different parts of the world, but they are most commonly seen in the northern hemisphere in countries such as Canada, Alaska, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. However, they can also be seen in other parts of the world such as Australia, New Zealand, and even the United States. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest. The Northern Lights are most visible in the late evening and early morning hours, when the sky is clear and the air is still. The best way to find out when and where the Northern Lights can be seen is to check the aurora forecast. The aurora forecast will give you an estimate of the best time and place to view the Northern Lights. It is also important to pay attention to the weather forecast, as clouds and light pollution can reduce visibility. Best Spots for Viewing the Northern Lights The best places to see the Northern Lights are in locations that have dark skies and are away from light pollution. Some of the best places to view the Northern Lights include Yellowknife in Canada, Tromso in Norway, and Abisko in Sweden. Other great places to view the Northern Lights include Alaska, Iceland, and Finland. However, the Northern Lights can be seen from many different places and you do not have to travel to a remote location to see them. The best way to find out where and when the Northern Lights can be seen is to check the aurora forecast. The forecast will give you an estimate of the best time and place to view the Northern Lights. How to Prepare for an Aurora Borealis Adventure If you are planning to go on an aurora borealis adventure, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure you have the best experience possible. First, you should make sure to check the aurora forecast so you know when and where the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights are. It is also important to pay attention to the weather forecast, as clouds and light pollution can reduce visibility. You should also make sure to dress warmly. The Northern Lights can be seen in many different parts of the world and it can get quite cold, especially during the winter months. Make sure to wear layers and bring a hat and gloves with you. Finally, make sure to bring a camera with you. The Northern Lights are an incredible sight and you will want to capture the moment. Make sure to bring a tripod and extra batteries for your camera so you can take the best pictures possible. Tips for Photographing the Northern Lights If you are planning to take pictures of the Northern Lights, there are a few tips to keep in mind to get the best results. First, make sure to bring a tripod. Taking pictures of the Northern Lights can be challenging as the lights move quickly, and a tripod will help you keep the camera steady and capture the best shots. Second, make sure to use a low ISO setting. A high ISO will cause the photos to be grainy and noisy. Third, make sure to use a wide aperture. A wide aperture will allow more light into the camera and will help you capture the best photos. Fourth, make sure to use a long shutter speed. The Northern Lights move quickly and you will need a longer shutter speed to capture the best shots. Finally, make sure to experiment with different settings. Taking photos of the Northern Lights can be a challenging and rewarding experience, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try different settings to get the best results. Northern Lights Tours & Packages If you are looking for the ultimate experience, there are many tour and package providers that offer Northern Lights tours and packages. These tours and packages typically include transportation, accommodations, and guided tours to see the Northern Lights. The tour providers will typically provide you with the best viewing locations and the best times for viewing the Northern Lights. They will also provide you with tips and advice on how to take the best photos of the Northern Lights. These tours and packages are a great way to experience the Northern Lights in a safe, comfortable, and organized way. Northern Lights FAQs Q. What are the Northern Lights? A. The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, is a phenomenon that is caused by the interaction between the Earth’s magnetic field and solar particles that are released from the sun. The particles are drawn towards the Earth’s magnetic field and when they collide with atoms in the atmosphere, it causes the release of energy in the form of light. Q. Where can I see the Northern Lights? A. The Northern Lights can be seen in many different parts of the world, but they are most commonly seen in the northern hemisphere in countries such as Canada, Alaska, Finland, Norway, Sweden, and Iceland. Q. When is the best time to see the Northern Lights? A. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest. The Northern Lights are most visible in the late evening and early morning hours, when the sky is clear and the air is still. Q. What colors can I see in the Northern Lights? A. The colors of the Northern Lights are determined by the type of atom that is being struck by the solar particles. Oxygen atoms produce green and yellow lights, nitrogen atoms produce blue and purple lights, and rarer atoms can produce a variety of other colors. Amazing Facts About the Northern Lights The Northern Lights are an incredible phenomenon that is full of amazing facts. Here are some of the most interesting facts about the Northern Lights: The scientific name for the Northern Lights is Aurorae Borealis, which comes from the name of the Roman goddess of dawn, Aurora, and the Greek word for north wind, Boreas. The most common colors of the Northern Lights are green, pink, and blue, but they can also be yellow, orange, and even purple. The Northern Lights can be seen from as far away as 1000 miles and can reach heights of over 60 miles. The Northern Lights are caused by solar particles that are released from the sun and are drawn towards the Earth’s magnetic field. The Northern Lights can be seen in the night sky in many parts of the world, including Canada, Alaska, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Conclusion The Northern Lights are a phenomenon that is truly a must-see experience. From the vibrant colors of green, pink, and blue, to the ever-changing shapes in the night sky, the Northern Lights are an incredible sight that should not be missed. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the winter months when the sky is at its darkest. The Northern Lights are most visible in the late evening and early morning hours, when the sky is clear and the air is still. The Northern Lights can be seen in many different parts of the world, but the best places to view them are in locations that have dark skies and are away from light pollution. Some of the best places to view the Northern Lights include Yellowknife in Canada, Tromso in Norway, and Abisko in Sweden. If you are looking for the ultimate experience, there are many tour and package providers that offer Northern Lights tours and packages. These tours and packages will help you have the best possible experience and will allow you to have the best chance of seeing and photographing the Northern Lights. So, what are you waiting for? Experience the magic of the Northern Lights and start planning your aurora borealis adventure today!

I'm Dre Erwin, the photographer you never knew you needed - lucky you guys, eh? I'm here to make sure you never forget my face and that you have the perfect opportunity to show off my photography gear. Yes, I am here to stay and I can only thank all of you wonderful people for the fantastic support! Without your encouragement and kind words, my photography would never have been able to reach the heights it has today. But please don't forget that I do, in fact, sell some merchandise. From photo prints to canvases, mugs and much more - what better way to show your support than with a great souvenir? Of course, after costs and shipping I never really make any money but it's still kind of cool. And I mean, who doesn't love some extra bling? So if you're interested in becoming a part of my photography journey and taking home something special, check out my Etsy store at https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/DreErwinPhotography New Supporter/Subscribers section on the Website Thank you all so much for the wonderful support! I'm so grateful for all the encouragement and kind words. I have never seen a Facebook page with so many recommendations as mine all thanks to all of you. Without you, my photography wouldn't be possible. I appreciate each and every one of you for making my journey so special. Thank you for believing in me and my work. Also, remember that if any of you want to subscribe, this option is still available: https://www.facebook.com/becomesuppo.../DreErwinPhotography/ There has been and will be many perks to becoming a supporter such as 20% discounted merch, free digital prints, and of course bragging rights. For those who are already a supporter, many thanks! I plan on updating new digital prints for you all soon. Please message me at any time and I look forward to doing live videos with you this year :) Thanks again for all the love - let's keep this dream alive! Favorite quote: I escape from my daily life by putting the camera to my face. Through the lens, all I can see is what I'm focusing on. I let go of all my worries and only notice the beauty I'm attempting to concentrate on and that in itself is my therapy. #therapeuticphotography - And lastly, don’t forget to share your photos with me too so make sure you join my Facebook group Inspiratography I can’t wait to see what kind of memories you’ve captured from my therapeutic photography!

When I see the northern lights... I go to see my grandparents. I recognize my old dog... I see miracles that God has chosen to show us in order to reassure us that they are safe. I believe miracles and blessings occur everywhere, every day, but most people do not know how to recognize them. I consider myself fortunate to have this opportunity to share them with you! This above picture is really creepy. The whole night, wee felt we were being watching and then we go to edit and see this... Beyond amazing what you can see what you look for it! I see get goose bumps when I see these pictures. i know it was a sign there is no other explanation - to see this that night and not any other. Look at the legs!!!! What are your thoughts on what you see in these pictures? Do you see something different?

Northern light season has arrived, and we thought it would be fun to celebrate by displaying the top ten northern lights photos from across the Canadian prairies in October 2022. "There is no enjoying the possession of anything valuable unless one has someone to share it with." -Seneca Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta all share one feature: big sky country. There were hundreds of beautiful photos posted, therefore it was difficult to choose just a few. So, without further ado, here is your list, beginning with number ten: 10. Nothing speaks more volumes then this picture taken by Judy in Alberta! Nothing is better then sharing these moments with the ones we love. And really, that's why I enjoy sharing as well. 9. A gorgeous photo done by Eric in Cold Lake Alberta - seems like a pretty awesome place to get good aurora borealis pictures if you ask me. 8. The sky is just so amazing, this photo from Brenda had to be included in the top ten aurora photos from October - this one from Saskatchewan. 7. Nothing better then spending time with your dog and watching the northern lights, by Darryl near Turtle Lake Saskatchewan. .6. We love this photo - the perfect picture done by Hugo just north of Edmonton - nicely done! 5. A photo can say a thousand words and this picture really does. Thanks to Patricia from Manitoba for taking this photo just outside her cabin. 4. Just east of Calgary, Siv took this amazing picture and many other ones including some time-lapse you need to see! An up and comer sort of speak! Thanks for allowing us to use your photo good job! 3. This photo is simple but equally amazing as Ann took the perfect picture, using excellent technique and framing for this one. Check out her page because this theme seems to be consistent and evident in a lot of her work. Good job Ann! 2. At number two, this photo just simply takes your breath away and Dustin from Saskatchewan really did a good job telling a story through the camera with this one. You can feel it cant you!? 1. And number one - this one just simply put is jaw dropping. James knows what he's doing and we are sure happy he came to Saskatchewan to take and share this with all of us. Way to go and congratulations to him, and the other 9 exceptional photos and photographers. So far, there have been some incredible images, most of which I'm sure Ed Bassmaster would have some choice words for, and the season is only just getting started! What do you think of the top ten? Do you have a photo that you believe should have been included? Make sure you check out all of their pages and follow the links. Like and share I always say. Let us know what photos should be included for Novembers top ten northern lights photos across the Canadian prairies! “People often say that motivation doesn’t last. Well, neither does bathing – that’s why we recommend it daily.” — Zig Ziglar Should we do a monthly top ten north America/ or World? You never know... Thank you! Alberta Aurora Chasers Saskatchewan Aurora Hunters Manitoba Aurora Borealis Enthusiasts Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter, share, and leave a comment below.

From the Northern Express -Janice Depeel

The 2023 northern lights inspirational calendars are now on sale, with sales benefiting a local food bank and charity in Regina this holiday season. Over the years, I've created calendars for a number of purposes. In 2017, I donated 100% of the proceeds to Pinehouse Lake Saskatchewan families in need for Christmas. We were able to put on a community Christmas supper for families in need, complete with free haircuts, free photos with Santa, awards, donations, and gifts for the kids, thanks to the earnings and the workers at the local health center, who cooked and helped arrange! We sold a record number of calendars in 2018, due in part to the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses and the Collage of Nurses for their support of our work with the local youth photography club. And we invested all of the proceeds in the Pinehouse Photography Club. I haven't been able to put together calendars in a few years due to carbon monoxide poisoning, among other things, whilst living in the north. But, happily, I survived to see another day. The past is the past, and I'm pleased to inform that we will be selling calendars again this Christmas. Many hours were spent gathering photos from the thousands collected during the previous year. I had to tweak the graphics and quotes a few times until we got it right. “Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” - Roald Dahl I sincerely hope you will consider purchasing one of these great calendars that will hopefully inspire you or someone else throughout 2023. FREE delivery across Canada. To place an order, send an EMT of $34.99 Canadian to drerwin@hotmail.com. Simply mention your shipping details. You can also visit the Etsy shop for more products and information. “If you're not making someone else's life better, then you're wasting your time. Your life will become better by making other lives better.” -Will Smith Thank you! - Dre

After visiting my sister and her family there a few weeks ago, we fell in love with Victoria. If you plan to travel by air, arrive in Sidney (20 minutes from Victoria), then reserve a rental car at the airport. When seeking tranquilly in or around Victoria, finding an ocean view is one of the most important things to do. Every sunset is an opportunity to reset. -Richie Norton It was oftentimes tough to find the drive to even walk outside and explore when there was an ocean view right outside your back door, but you can do it! You could spend the entire day admiring yachts and boats and even reading about their features online. The best things to do in and around Victoria BC (Haven't done them all yet) Beers and fish at Pier Bistro (Sidney) Tour the British Columbia Parliament Building Walk around Victoria Old Town and Chinatown Enjoy the famous Tea at the Empress Hike around Beacon Hill Park Watch the sunset from the Inner Harbor Visit the Royal BC Museum Stroll around Fishermans’s Wharf Admire Craigdarroch Castle Tour and amazing beaches Take a trip to the Butchart Gardens Go on a Ocean tour/whale watching tour Victoria, a city full of adventure and surrounded by water. The southernmost point of Vancouver Island is home to the coastal capital of British Columbia, which enjoys stunning views of the Salish Sea and the straits of Juan de Fuca and the Haro. I would advise doing it at least once. We had the opportunity to take a boat excursion through the Gulf Islands. After a day on the water, make sure you spend some times walking around downtown Victoria. The territory that makes up Victoria's Old Town is situated between Chatham Street (the northern boundary), Humboldt Street (the southern boundary), Douglas Street (the eastern boundary), the Wharf and Store Streets, and the Waterfront (west border). As Victoria Old Town is a fairly pleasant spot to roam around, you could easily spend the entire afternoon here. It's time to head outside of Victoria's downtown to see the renowned Butchart Gardens. These lovely gardens, which are only 20 km north of Victoria, are a wonderful destination to spend the day. The Butchart Gardens are a National Historic Site of Canada and were created as a consequence of Jenny Butchart's inspiration, fervor, and commitment. There is the Sunken Garden, which Jennie Butchart planted as the very first garden way back in 1904, as well as Japanese, Italian, and Mediterranean gardens as well as the enticing Rose Garden. A coffee shop, restaurant, and gift shop are also there, as well as a lot of seeds. The Rose Carousel, which features 30 hand-carved wooden animals, is another attraction, especially for families with young children. The cost of a carousel ride is merely 2CAD! "The golden hour can be simultaneously shared with the ones we love and care about and lived as a very personal and spiritual occasion" While in Victoria make sure you head to Beacon Hill Park for some of Victoria's best walking trails if you want to burn some calories. The park has a number of hiking trails, a gorgeous pond, a children's zoo, and lovely flowers. A viewpoint overlooking the Strait of Juan de Fuca may be found here, along with the highest free-standing totem pole in the entire globe. We only stayed for five days, but we were able to enjoy the coast and Victoria's winding roads, paddle boarding, boat tours, and we can't wait to return! Along the ocean in Victoria, there are numerous beaches, cute boutiques, and my favorite pubs that offer the greatest halibut and beer money can buy. When you do decide to leave your current accommodation, though, be sure to stop in Sydney at least once. Victoria, British Columbia is the ideal getaway if you love photography. No matter what there is to see and do, the best part was spending time with friends and family. There is a lot to see, but not enough time! The butterfly gardens sounded interesting to me as well. In Victoria, where would you recommend visiting?

When we need it the most, inspirational and motivational quotations can help us maintain a positive attitude on life and work. They accomplish this by utilizing the power of positive thinking. In order to live a happy and successful life, we must retrain our minds to think positively. A collection of pictures and quotes to help inspire you through the month of April: Stay tuned for next months inspiration!

So, what motivates people to pursue careers as photographers? I'm sure there are a variety of reasons...general curiosity, passion, adventure, financial considerations, etc. Photography has always piqued my curiosity, but I've never put much effort into it. Yes, I bought a camera years ago, but all it did was collect dust, and it sat in the office as an ordainment. In 2015, near Tuxford, Saskatchewan, I decided to put my new Nikon 3300 camera to the test by driving out to a farmer's field and photographing an old barn. When a thunderstorm moved into the frame, I had my first traumatic and life alternating experience being in the path of a tornado that day. Recently going through an exceedingly challenging time in my life, living through this event gave me the courage and motivation to move on and explore the power of photography. I quickly learned how photography could help me heal as well as others along the way. It hasn't always been easy for me. Life wasn't looking good most of the time, what with personal upheaval, a failing marriage, and financial issues. It occurred to me that I should start snapping pictures more frequently...why not...no one is stopping me now. Now is the time to explore and try new things while I still have the opportunity...to live life! It hasn't always been easy for me. Life wasn't looking good most of the time, what with personal upheaval, a failing marriage, and financial issues. It occurred to me that I should start snapping pictures more frequently...why not...no one is stopping me now. Now is the time to explore and try new things while I still have the opportunity...to live life! So there I was, strolling out to capture some shots of this barn on a gorgeous warm and sunny day. It's a beautiful old edifice and I was delighted I made my way out there. I could see a storm blowing in from the west after about 30 minutes and assumed I'd depart soon to get something to eat. As the storm grew closer, I began to use the tripod to focus the camera on it instead. Then, on my phone, I get a message from a coworker who says "Have you heard that a storm is on its way? You should go out and photograph it ".. So, with the camera in hand, I eagerly responded with a selfie of myself. As the storm approached, I could see that there were indeed shelf clouds! This was a thrilling first for me! I couldn't help but laugh out loud in delight. I think I'll be able to get some cool images of this...hope let's my camera settings are correct. As the clouds gently moved in, a gentle breeze could be felt. I snapped as many shots as I could then walked away from my truck, which was a poor idea:). As I could see twisting winds isolated in a region at least a kilometer distant, my excitement was quickly replaced with fear. At first, I didn't realize it was a tornado. However, as it grew closer, it became clear what it was...a small little twister. It gained up speed swiftly, and before I knew it, it was approaching the barn, where all hell broke out. I had nowhere to shelter as the gusts became increasingly severe. I ended up being too far away from my truck for it to be safe. I began to be concerned about my safety because there was no ditch and nowhere to hide. My joy had turned to terror! I've been in thunderstorms and heavy winds before, but never so close to a tornado! So I dashed to the truck, which was, of course, straight in the line of the twister. The gusts became so fierce that I had to run into them in order to stay upright. My face was pelted with sand and mud, and the agony was excruciating. But I ran and ran, imagining what would happen if I were flown away. I wasn't prepared to pass away! Despite the fact that I had so much to live for, I ran and did what I could. I fought and pushed my way forward, unable to see anything. I had a feeling the truck was heading in that direction. I raced with one arm over my face as I dragged the camera and tripod to my side, but it never felt like I was getting anywhere. It was as though I were sprinting on the spot. Then, seemingly out of nowhere, I arrived at the truck, but it was only then that the winds suddenly ceased and the twister past me. I hurriedly climbed inside the truck and, relieved, tossed the camera on the passenger seat. In 2015, I realized I wasn't just taking pictures anymore; I had developed a passion in photography. With a lens that was considerably superior to my own, I was capturing a moment in time. Unlike my own, which was jaded and easily persuaded, the worldview was pristine. Each nuance and emotion were preserved far better than my memory could have imagined. I was capturing the moment and history, no matter how insignificant the event. This was an exciting time in my life for me, as well as a turning point. Some may argue that it wasn't safe, and that I should have returned long ago. Yes, you are most likely correct! Remember, I was only going to photograph a barn, so this was completely unexpected. But the truth is that I am fine...thankfully. But, since that moment of exhilaration and terror, I've given serious thought to my life and the route it was taking. That storm now has a new meaning for me. That storm was a metaphor for the anguish and suffering I was experiencing on a personal level. As the clouds dissipated and the skies cleared, I began to consider how this related to my own life. Since that pivotal moment in my life, I've decided to utilize photography to assist those who may be experiencing personal anguish and suffering. In some ways, to use photography as a sort of rehabilitation. Surprisingly, photography and nursing seem to go hand in hand.