ARIZONA

For several years in November, I have passed on Northwest rain and headed to Arizona for sun, as well as more “Mom research”, botanical and wildlife parks, butterfly gardens, bird watching, and family visits. This year it will be December. What will greet me once more? Here’s a peek at past winter moments:  Bisbee Museum: Statehood celebration one year before Mom was born there. Fading mannequins, Gambrel quail and windows and Mom in the U of A Yearbook sports page,

MEXICO

Then it will be back home, waiting for a second break in Mexico in 2018. Today I found my favorite book hiding away on a shelf, and my zest for savoring that beauty returned. I remember meeting the photographer, who is renowned in major publications, and getting his autograph on “La Luz Del Pueblo“.  He was so fortunate to get inside the colorful homes and patios and would even hire models for some of his photos.

( https://www.amazon.com/Luz-del-Pueblo-Discovering-Allende/dp/0615246915)

This book brought lots of memories of my favorite place, San Miguel Allende and as I flipped through its pages, I began searching my computer for some of my own images.  I had almost the same joy: meeting people on my own, engaging them, feeling blessed by a culture that is different than my own. The first morning you wake up in SMA your senses are awakened: the colors, the aromas, floral delights, Gothic churches, doors and windows. Camera time!   On one occasion I had  the joy of meeting another photographer who I hired. As we walked down streets and alleys, he would say, “come back here about 2 or so and you’ll see a different light.”  He guided me on how to approach people in their own culture, avoiding being the ugly American by intruding.  Find common ground to make them feel comfortable long before asking for a photo.  And maybe you won’t get the shot, but you would have been the perfect guest. 

My photos here:

This is not my hand, since I have not attempted painting.  But my lens continues to capture what I love.  So stay tuned for more Mexico images.

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