Happy Birthday World

The candle is lit on this Birthday Cake.

The heavens begin to sing.

My departed loved ones purse their lips together, and blow out that solitary candle.

They make a silent wish for us all.  As they do each and every night.

Yes. I like that idea very much indeed.

Owen's Wordless Wednesday

For his birthday, Owen received this Fisher Price digital camera from his grandparents. Rest assured, however, that his is a very manly red and blue.

Owen's birthday was at the end of February, but I have just now downloaded pictures from the camera onto the computer.

The results were enlightening. Clearly, Owen is surrounded by giants and monsters.

I have a better understanding of his constant need to stand on tables, chairs, counter-tops, and sofas.

You quickly see what is important in his life:

And, more importantly, who is important in his life:

Although the quality of the camera may be lacking, there is joy to be found when you look through Owen's eyes. I know this for a fact.

"Boys Water the Trees; Girls Water the Grass"

I met some friends at the park today, and saw their new baby.

I'm talking, of course, about their newly acquired cell phone. The time had come to upgrade the phone, and upgrade they did. It wasn't quite a Smart Phone---perhaps a Proficient Phone would be a better adjective. Nevertheless, my friend cradled the phone gently, carried it in a Baby Bjorn, and jumped at its every beep and whimper.

I must admit that I love my phone as well, but one of the features that has, truly, truly enhanced my life is the camera function. I always have a camera, and consequently, I see the world with a more artistic eye.

I was able to capture Owen as he proudly showed me his yoga in a sun-drenched backyard:

I promise you I did not know any postures or even the word yoga when I was four years old. I'm so happy he does.

I also was able to take pictures while we were on an impromptu hike today. Owen suddenly needed to use the restroom, so I turned off the road, and discovered a charming hiking trail. We watered the trees, and stayed for the scenery. By the way, according to Owen, "Boys water the trees, and girls water the grass."

Do you see how they are holding hands? I don't think I could love this picture any more. 

We found a tobacco barn, and you know how I love me a tobacco barn. 

I went home and played with my photo software. These stacked boards looked like a blooming flower, heavy with pollen.:   

 This? This is what my heart looks like. Well, that and my little yogi. 

My brother, who is an amazing artist, poet, and musician in Seattle, has started a new blog called onfootphotos. You take pictures with your camera phone and submit them to the site. You share your city or community through artistic eyes and well-trod feet. You're welcome to doctor the photos with any software you choose, but the camera must be connected to your phone. 

I would encourage you to check out his site, become a follower, and enjoy the journey. He's a good egg, despite the fact that Mom and Dad totally were easier on him because he's the baby. 

I will submit my first photo tomorrow. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance!