Category: Photography

Stolen Time

4/11/2017

Spring, the time of year I watch for the green shoots, listen for the sound of the Canada Geese, Robins and Kestrels. The season that lures me outdoors.

In our neck of the woods, the ground is still froze enough to stop thoughts of digging in the dirt; but, with all the activity Mother Nature offers, it is a good time to walk, observe, learn and feel what’s going on.

Spring is one of my favourite times of the year (the other being the Fall). The weather’s neither cold or hot, making it my kind of working environment; where I can sit on the deck, go for a walk, or take a drive along the back roads. Find a spot to listen to the sounds, take pictures, write, or sit and soak up the day.

I rely on the outdoors, the visions and sounds to clear my mind. The jumbled thoughts are given space to congregate in their appropriate location. Settling my focus through the nothing, yet the everything that is within my sight. Filtering the important from what can be shelved for another day or turfed all together.

These stolen times outside the walls of my office may be for a day, a few hours, or a 'holy crap' moment that has me running to the yard to watch the geese flying over. An interlude that makes me smile, grounds me to the things that have meaning to me, and inspire me to continue to forge ahead towards my goals.

Where does your stolen time come from?

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life
"Capturing moments others may never get to experience."

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Morning Muse - Catch Up

3/7/2017

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January and February have flown by and March, it seems, has started without me and now it’s time to do some catch up.

The last few weeks have been an immersion of writing, deadlines, research and winter weather. Breathing room has settled, in and so have new schedules, Morning Muse included.

The release of my next book, The Quiet Spirits, became the focus of my attention over the last part of February. The completion of the third round of editing moved the pages to the hands of the beta readers. The writing and planning process doesn’t stop while I await for its return. The book cover needs to be designed and talks with publishers are only a few of the items on the list. All, in an effort to meet my own internal deadlines to have this book released in the fall of this year.

Let Your Senses Run Free is a six week program I am very excited to be a part of. In collaboration with Silver Valley Ranch, it promises to be an experience of wandering, observing, listening and feeling on the other side of the fence. Read more . . . and Register.

An invitations to write as a guest for other websites and blogs, are always an honour. Carrot Ranch Communications contacted me to submit a piece for their Raw Literature Series. Having the opportunity to write about how I write was a lot of fun. Raw From the Soul Read more . . .

And now, “What’s with the schedule?” you ask.

   Morning Muse will continue as a once a week entry on Sunday. This will be my last Wednesday Morning Muse post (for now). Topics will continue along the same vein as they have in past.

   Flash Fiction Challenges (99 Words and 52 Words) will posted as they are written. I love writing these micro stories that can't be prepared for. When the weekly prompt arrives is when I get the brain in gear.

O.K. the new schedule is settling out, so what else is going on?

   I am going to be implementing notification of activities and posts by E-mail to those on our mailing list. Yes, you will have the option to decline or unsubscribe from these E-mails.

   The Ann Edall-Robson FB page has already seen some changes. You can now purchase ALL of my books from this bit of social media; and, I’ve made it easier for you to contact me from this location. I am looking at doing further modifications here as I go forward.

All of the changes and goings on is a better fit in my writing world. I will now have time to work on other projects that have been simmering on the back burner, giving them the attention they deserve.

Thanks for stopping by to catch up with what I am up to. See you soon.

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life
"Capturing moments others may never get to experience."

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Morning Muse - Unexpected Heart Sighting

2/11/2017

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People hearts and feelings are not as giving as Mother Nature. Humans expect some reciprocal give back if they give you their heart. And, quite often, there is some kind of string attached to the body part that pumps life through us.

Mother Nature, on the other hand, gives sometimes for a fleeting moment, sometimes for an hour, or sometimes forever. Each time she bestows upon you a heart, she is happy just to have made you smile. No strings attached!

Imagine, if you would, seeing a heart in the most unexpected places. Definately a gift no human being could ever give.

Enjoying a summer day in the back yard.

This one takes a little imagination and focus. But it's there, where the long slope meets the first rise along Chimney Rock Road.

On a walk at Silver Valley Ranch.

From the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

Have you had an unexpected heart sighting? Share your pictures and stories with us.

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life
"Capturing moments others may never get to experience."

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Morning Muse - "Hell, Yes!"

1/27/2017

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The knee jerk reaction to an offer that encompasses your passion is to yell out, “Hell, yes!” After all, doing what you love, makes it easy to love what you’re doing.

If you hesitate when an opportunity presents itself, even for a second, the analytical brain will start to process doubts that include the age old saying, “This is too good to be true.”

Sometimes the push to agree comes from a need from within to change, to go forward, or to just live the dream, even if it is for that given moment in time.

I have been visiting with Meagan Saam of Silver Valley Ranch for a few years. There are times, we wander all over a plethora of topics. Brainstorming, laughing, going for walks and (me) coming away with way more inspiration than the brain is worthy of.

On a recent beautiful winter day, I again had the pleasure of visiting with Meg. We bounced around ideas, had some serious moments and a good laugh. At the end of our time together, this lovely lady presented me with a fantastic gift to consider.

This was one of those “Hell, yes!” moments.

I am delighted to share with everyone, I have accepted Meg’s offer to become one of the Partnering Professionals at Silver Valley Ranch.

What will I be doing? Meg's words say it best. "Guiding groups on quiet, exploratory, nature based photography and intuitional writing sessions and workshops."

Workshop dates and times will be available soon. Please contact Ann or Meg for more information.

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life
"Capturing moments others may never get to experience."

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Morning Muse - Nurturing

1/8/2017

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A new year, a new set of challenges. The beginning of a nurturing process.

An opening sentence like that conjures up all kinds of things that need to be overcome. It takes you to the tasks that have been ignored and promises to “Get ‘r Done!”

My though on all this? Don’t be foolish. Yes, it’s another year; and yes, it’s an opportunity to wipe the slate clean or complete what has been glossed over. The last day of December rolls into the first day of January. The mind moves forward with unified vision of challenges or goals, and how you have decided to take them on.

I am embracing some challenges that include only ME. These projects I welcome to my realm, will not only jump start the brain, there is also the chance to rest and relax. Oh, there is the everyday stuff that will continue to pop in and create a twist in my plans, but I see them as an opportunity to see who I am.

My new challenges include writing more, reading more, creating more. That’s nothing new, you might think, so what’s the big deal?

The new writing part involves a weekly task of penning a story from a provided prompt. The result can be no more and no less than 52 words. Imagine, a descriptive, any type of prose with a 52 word constraint attached? I am so up for this!

The reading side, while it is something I do when I feel the need, now comes with a codicil of finishing twelve books over the year and posting a review on Goodreads (where I am a member author). This, too might not seem like a heavy lift, but in all honesty, reading the books is not the challenge, it’s taking the time to write the reviews. From a published author’s point of view, I know it is one thing that readers seldom take the time to do, and it only takes but a few minutes.

Creating more? Like I need to add this to my repertoire! The creativity side always has plans to design, build and complete. It may be a simple as finishing a quilt, deciding which flowers to start in the greenhouse or taking more pictures. It’s an internal permission to let the imagination and soul wander to the places it has missed going to.

What are your plans for you, this year?

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life

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Morning Muse - Soft, Quiet Moments

10/16/2016

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The Blog File is filled with notes, one liners, full length writings, and pictures. All are inspirations from bits and pieces that have crossed my path. All fill my creative thoughts with many, many opportunities to share.

Today’s writing is what I consider a ‘wing it’ moment. After spending some time pondering what was available, I decided to just write a (little) bit and see what happened.

HA! My mind kept floating back to the wonders that are before us each and every day. The little things that go un-noticed because we take them for granted. The moments I love to find and share.

Today, is a soft, quiet day. Perfect for filling the mind with favourite things.

A best friend.

Historic memories.

The beginning of another life.

A new day.

What are your favourite thoughts that come to mind on a day when you take the time to reflect?

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life

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Morning Muse - Voice & Vision 2016

9/23/2016

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Interpretation ~ Allowing the creative mind to see and record a vision prompted by written and artistic works. Each telling their own story by way of words and various mediums.

Since May 2016, twenty-four people have been part of the inaugural Airdrie Voice and Vision 2016 project. Twelve writers. Twelve artists. Paired randomly to interpret each other’s work. Each creating an additional set of artistic and written impressions.

The deadline for completion, Sept 1, yet it was three weeks later that all involved could come together to view and share.

An exciting evening for everyone! The volunteers who worked hours to co-ordinate and keep everyone informed also presented the icing for the cake - a mock up Voice and Vision book that will be published. Taking the arts to yet another level. Showcasing interactive pieces from all who participated in the project.

This is only the beginning of the end of this journey. On Oct 1, artist and writers will come together for an evening of the arts at the Airdrie Public Library. The months of creating interpretations will be on display. The artisans will be available to discuss their work.

After this first public display of Voice and Vision, framed prints and corresponding writings will be on display around the city at various venues yet to be determined.

My vision partner for the 2016 Voice and Vision project is Carrie Leigh.

Her original piece was un-named and I chose to call it Deer in the Woods. My interpretation of her work is called, Do You See Me?

Do You See Me?

Do you see me? I think not. This is where I come to blend in. It is a sanctuary. A haven surrounded by hues that allow me to fade in and out. Inconspicuous and camouflaged by the circumstances of life.

But, you still insist that you see me. I think not. How can that be? We’ve never met. You know nothing of me. I am the beginning that transpires from a vision.

Until then, I am but a figments of your imagination. Displaced in reality.

I remain lost to all who come this way. Patiently waiting for small strokes to materialize. Details yet to be added.

Then you will see me for what I am. Then you will see me for what I symbolize. Then and only then will I be done.

Do you see me? I think so. I am complete.

Ann Edall-Robson
Author of Moon Rising: An Eclectic Collection of Works

Letting Go

A reflection in the mirror caught her eye.

Once pampered, supple she remembered the intimate feeling she’d had the first time they had been together.Their life was filled with diversity. Without complaint they worked together; comfortable in their relationship.

Fading and weathered, there is a worn and tired look that creeps into the mirror. A feeling that the end was near. A longing for the familiar caress across her fingers.

It’s hard to let go. To move on. With a tender touch and a gentle goodbye, she walked out the door. The old leather garden gloves left behind.

Ann Edall-Robson
Author of Moon Rising: An Eclectic Collection of Works

Join Carrie and I on October 1/16 at the Airdrie Public Library (7 pm - 9 pm) for an evening of the arts. Listen to the stories and see the artwork that inspired them. The Voice and Vision 2016 committee has announced that copies of the published book can be ordered at this event.

If anyone is interested in purchasing a copy of this collection of arts, please contact me.

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life

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Morning Muse - A Connection

8/28/2016

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The land and what it has to offer holds the connection to all things that matter to me. As I age, the stronger that feeling gets. The need to wander, capture in the memory bank and share, is deep seeded. The land and what it had to offer is where our heritage began.

I have my favourites destinations that give me a tranquil inner peace. They let me know I have 'come home' so to speak. They are not all within close proximity of where I live, but that makes them all the more precious when the opportunity to visit is gifted to me.

Walking through the wild hay meadow, the fragrance of mint, crushed beneath our feet, meets the nose. Knee high grass swooshes out of our way. The wind causes green ripples on the valley floor.

An abundance of wild flowers blanket the hill sides we have passed through. Raspberries, Saskatoons and Nodding Onion intermingled among the vibrant colours of summer.

Dogs romp ahead and charge back to join us. Flopping down on the cool, damp ground to catch their wind before galloping off in another directions.

Our trek takes us past the Elephant Bone Yard. So named by the imagination of young minds that discovered bleached bones of a long demised bovine strewn hither and yon by coyotes that call this place home.

Climbing up out of the valley an alternate trail wanders back towards the beginning of the day. Opening gates to yet another pasture and the attention of the much loved and giving herd of horses. Today, they gather in the corner, waiting for the lady who has brought them together. She does not disappoint them. Stopping to talk quietly to each of them before moving on.

The day is warming. The dogs make a dash for the water of the nearby pond. How lucky they are to paddle. Refreshing their bodies and cooling off, before striking out again, tails in the air, noses to the ground.

The magical Fairy Tree stands alone on the hillside. Outstretched branches welcoming those who embrace the spirits found by passing under them. Through a portal that is full of laughter and adventure in a land where a creative vision is needed to roam.

A morning of wandering through the hills, valleys and meadows. Resting beside the ponds where ducks float, ignoring our passage and the massive heron taking flight. Deer take their leave through the willows and there is evidence of elk that have recently visited. In the distance a hawk is heard. Circling over the fields, looking for its next meal.

A place of grounding. A place of finding. A place of appreciation. A place of connection. This place?

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life

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Morning Muse - Where's Your Time Zone?

8/21/2016

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I sat alone on the deck early this morning savouring the start of my day. Pushing away the annoyances of vehicle sounds in the distance. Smiling at the scream of a hawk that had made its way into the local flight zone.

My mind seldom slows down. Even in sleep, the dreams are action packed and in vivid colours. But the tranquility of morning soothes the Bunster that continually races around in my brain. These stolen moments, sipping coffee, feeling the breeze and watching the clouds, all create a much needed reprieve from the chaotic go-go-go of modernized life.

My favourite down time has me wandering with my camera and a journal. Stopping every now and then to take a picture or finding a spot that says, “Here. Take a seat. This spot is your inspiration place, today.”

Life does carry on if we remove ourselves from the day going on around us. All those things that are a jumbled mass of “I must do this, I have to do that” become less daunting after spending some time in a place that gives us pleasure.

Taking time is what it’s all about. Recognize and revel in its gift.

Everyone has a go to zone. Where’s yours?

Ann Edall-Robson
Author, Photographer, Lover of Life

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Morning Muse - A Gathering ~ Second Edition

8/18/2016

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Thanks to technology glitches and fixes, we can now share the the pictures from A Gathering.

Prints of these pictures are available in our Silver Valley Collection; and, DAKATAMA Gallery offers additional prints and giftware.