I am so honored that talented photographer and kindred spirit Catherine Goron of La Mémoire Vive invited me to join in this virtual blog tour. Here are my answers to the tour's four provocative questions:

1. What am you working on?

For the past two years, I have challenged myself to complete a Project 365. Each day, I take photos of beautiful or interesting things that inspire me to stop and take a closer look. This challenge has been an awesome opportunity to slow down, to recognize the beauty and inspiration that surrounds me each day if I just take the time to see them. Project 365 has taught me to be present, to pay attention, to rejoice in the unexpected moments that did not go unnoticed.

2. How does your work differ from others of its genre?

My photographs are all taken with my iPhone. So often, I imagine how lovely my photos could be if taken with a proper camera. I could stealthily zoom in on the lovely creatures that visit my garden. I could take photos in low light, focus on the tiniest details, and achieve a lovely depth of field. Yet, I quite enjoy the portability of my iPhone, knowing that it is available whenever something catches my eye. I also appreciate the challenge of achieving clear, vibrant, creative images without an optimal lens.

3. Why do you write/create what you do?

Technically, I'm learning about angles, focus, composition, and light. In addition to the visual components, writing challenges me to express my creativity in words that complement my images. I feel inspired, dedicated, and so very blessed by the encouragement of all who have followed my progress. Thank you!

4. How does your writing/creating process work?

Over the past year, I have become keenly aware of opportunities to capture beautiful moments. Some days, there is so much loveliness that it can't possibly be contained in a single photograph. Other days (during the fourth or fifth month of winter in Wisconsin), it can become almost frustrating to find something that it beautiful or inspiring. But the challenge is exhilarating and rewarding. I love water, flowers, clouds, sunsets, wine, Paris, French culture, and my beautiful home state of Wisconsin; however, I have yet to find a true focus/theme for my blog, other than that each image has inspired me to be present and reflective.