I've Learned That

I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life. I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life." I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance. I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw something back. I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one. I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back. I've learned that I still have a lot to learn. I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.
—
Maya Angelou




I love this quote by Maya Angelou. It just about sums up everything you need to know or do in life!

A Camera for all Seasons

I've been busy with my camera out in my garden this week. It was fun finding and photographing these friends.

I got a Canon Rebel for Christmas and I love it! I bought a 50mm prime lens that takes awesome close-up pics. I download my pictures to Picasa but I really like to edit them using Picnik--it's very easy and fun. I have also used Photoshop Express. (These are all free!)

I'm very self-taught; reading whatever I can find on the internet. Here are a few resources that I really like. Digital Photography School has lots of tutorials. I Heart Faces has tutorials and a weekly photo challenge. Ree over at Pioneer Woman blog also has photography tips.

Have you been out with your camera lately? What's your favorite thing to photograph?

Wordless Wednesday

This made me think of back to school coming soon! (taken in Barcelona)

A Thought/Real Joy

I had to borrow this from Your Homebased Mom.

After spending a fun afternoon tubing with my three little grandchildren I know I need to spend more time with them. What brings you real joy?

If Only...

Lilies from my garden. I wish I could send you some my blogger friends! Have a great Friday!

Wordless Wednesday

An active volcano on the island of Stromboli as seen from our cruise ship.

Tattoos for Youse

I was recently at a family gathering and the subject of tattoos came up. I'm surprised at the reactions that people still have regarding tattoos and those that have them. (I have 4 tattoos that can all be covered up.)Some family members are totally stumped as to why anyone would want one. Others are curious and may be contemplating getting one of their own. Almost everyone had questions about the tattoo-ing process.
So here are some Tattoo do's and don'ts. I hope the information is helpful and maybe even gets you to consider a tattoo!

*Do consult with a reputable tattoo artist about the design you want before you get started. Make sure it is something you want for the rest of your life. The artist that did mine suggested a little different placement than I would have thought of. (He said you should be able to cover up all tattoos.)

*Do listen to your tattoo artist when your tattoo is completed. He/she will tell you how to care for your new tattoo. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

*Don't expose your new tattoo to sunlight. No tanning beds! Put sunblock/sunscreen on your tattoo when going outside. You should continue to do this even after your tattoo isn't new anymore. It will help keep the colors from fading.

*Leave the bandage on your tattoo as long as the artist instructs you to.It will prevent it from sticking to clothing, bedsheets, etc.

* Don't rebandage your tattoo.

*Use the aftercare product your artist recommends. Do not use Neosporin, Vaseline or peroxide on your tattoo. These can ruin your tattoo. Follow the directions faithfully!

*Don't pick at or scratch your tattoo. It will itch as it heals. That's part of the healing process.

*Don't go swimming or soak your tattoo for at least two weeks after you get it done.

*Don't consume alcohol before getting a tattoo. Not only could it impair your judgement but it could thin your blood and you could bleed more.

*Do research the tattoo shop. Make sure you know the precautions they are taking for your safety.

Do you have any tattoos? How do people react to yours?