This realization can change my attitude from disappointment to joy. It can be tricky, to notice the obvious. Especially if you have blinders on. I find it especially disconcerting after I’ve just had some amazing photographic good fortune. Such as the day I went to Takhlakh Lake under a cover of low clouds, with little hope of seeing the famous reflection of Mount Adams–and then it miraculously appeared.
Heavenly Reflection
It was easy to be grateful that day. I got what I wanted and what I set out for. And, even a bit extra.
Big Spring Creek Falls – Middle
But there are days when I set out with something in mind, and it just doesn’t happen. Like the Mt. Hood Scenic Byway. I envisioned multiple, beautiful vistas of Mt. Hood and autumn colors, and who knows what else. Instead, the clouds rolled in, the weather got cold, and the mountain disappeared. Yet, I saw and experienced a part of Oregon I had not seen before. And it was beautiful and wonderful.
Or, the trip to shoot some lesser known waterfalls on the Washington side of the gorge. Rain and rough gravel roads and “No Trespassing” signs, as well as my own mistakes ensured that I would not come home with any spectacular photographs. Yet, I experienced something unforgettable and wondrous when the spawning salmon at the bottom of one waterfall swam within inches of me–over and over. It was as if they were getting to know me, in the last days of their life, and I felt their spirit and determination. They had reached this pool, at the bottom of a 33 foot waterfall, by swimming hundreds of miles from the Pacific Ocean and this was as far as they could go. I arrived at the same place by driving my car a few miles and walking several hundred feet. It almost felt as if I had cheated. Yet here I was, and here they were.
So there are times when the experience is perfect for photographing and I capture it and share it.
Unforgettable Day at Takhlakh Lake
And there are times when the photography takes a back seat and the experience is not captured to share. It’s only mine to savor in my memory. And I know now that this is how it must be and I’ve decided to be okay with that.
Blue Heron over the River
Although, I still reserve the right to squawk about missing the shot!
I’m really enjoying your travels Loree. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for joining me Sydney! Starting to look for my next home now. Probably on the central Oregon coast…
A Course In Miracles says: “If a miracle does not happen something is wrong”. We are not open to receive from the Universe. We practice being open all of the time and it makes our life so much better.
C&B
These are wonderful. Your going to have one special portfolio with all of these shots. I sincerely hope your having the time of your life …
Carol and Berniece,
Miracles do happen all the time. I just need to remember to pay attention so I don’t miss them.
Dave,
I really am having the time of my life. Thank you for the kind words.
I have so enjoyed your work/passion/joy! I had no idea you had such talent with your camera. Go girl, I’ve been watching your gallery for about a year & often tell other artists to plug in. Decided That I better encourage you on the way. Love your photo titles and find myself laughing alot! Thanks, many of us take life too seriously. If you find your self in Casper look Shari & I up. If you need to install solar panels on the new rig we could help with that as well. Safe travels in Gillette!
Well, that explains that creepy feeling I have like someone is watching me….
Seriously, though, I really appreciated your kind words and encouragement and I will definitely look you guys up if I’m ever in the neighborhood!