Life: Through the Lens

Have you heard of this?  Nature Deficit Disorder.  It's the "staggering divide between children and the outdoors," says Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods and The Nature Principle .   I heard Louv speak at Central Michigan University a couple of years ago and was enthralled that he so effectively makes the case for this "disorder," and compels people to do something about it. Louv's  message is about enriching our lives, making our lives stronger and more full, by not just protecting the living world, but also by celebrating it.  I am liberally using terms he also used, from book jackets and my notes, because he is a strong and compelling author and speaker. We have always encouraged our children and grandchildren to play outdoors, and to use their imaginations.  Homemade Halloween costumes, hours playing in the yard and with friends...my children still remember the day we cut the chord on the television.  Literally! A

I can't believe how long it's been since I've logged in and posted.  Time passes so quickly and we fill our days with so many things.  As the semester winds down I am working to get to a simpler life, and schedule. So a few days ago we decided to run away with another couple of photo junkies and find an adventure.  Our idea had been to drive over to Holland, on Lake Michigan, and take lots of tulip and lake pictures.  And then the rain started.  Part way there the gentlemen came up with Plan B - an indoor outing in the general direction we were headed. This took us to Meijer Gardens, in Grand Rapids.  There we dodged field trips and grandparents with grandchildren in tow, and walked through the Butterfly Conservatory, caterpillar room, and a few of the outdoor garden offerings.  Though cold, the downpour stopped long enough for us to grab a few shots of tulips which weren't totally blowing in the breeze.   The lack of sunshine kept the butterflies

A few weeks ago we took a drive to Midland, a lovely community not far from us.  The day was overcast and cool, a typical spring day in Michigan, but we found some interesting photographs just waiting to be taken. The courthouse, for instance, has a beautiful entrance.  I love doorways, particularly those which have a welcoming appeal.  Though the doors were obviously heavy, and the architecture strong, I still felt as if I could easily walk in that building and feel welcome.  Of course, it's a courthouse.  So you would only want to see what's inside from a photographer's perspective:). Inserted as a panel in the stonework was a beautiful painting, illustrating it's early use as a trading post.  Weathered, yet preserved well, it was a wonderful account of a time in early Michigan history. Next door to the courthouse was a charming building, with a working carillon playing familiar tunes.  Familiar and comforting, like Somewhere Over the Rainbow or M