Summer Reading

Kids are almost out for the summer.  Make sure that they time to read this summer.   There are so many great books out there.  This blog contains a recommendation from me as well as links to two great literary resources.  

 I would like to take a moment to recommend a young adult book series call the Lunar Chronicles.  There are four books in this series  Cinder, Scarlett, Cress and Winter.   These books are the retelling of fairy tales in a futuristic society.   Instead on simpering princesses, we find strong female characters that vaguely resemble fairy tale creatures.... Cinderella, Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Snow White.   There is a ton of adventure and a little romance.   This series would be great for 12 year olds and older.  These books are longer, but don't let that deter you.  They are quick reads for adults and easily accomplished by younger readers. 

Think fairy tale meets Divergent.   These books were recommended to me by my 13 year old fellow book aficionado, Frankie.  She has her own vlog (video blog).  If you have a young reader, I highly suggest that you follow her vlog.  She has great recommendations.   Subscribe now.... this girl knows what she is talking about.

A link to her vlog:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Oi9kE7u6ZBuZD0M3t6dxA


Another great resource for picking great books.... my friend Katherine, a 5th grade teacher.    She is always reading.   So if you have a younger reader, check out her blog.   A great resource.

A link to her blog:  http://readwriteandreflect.blogspot.com/

Young adult books are great reads for adults too.   Keep up to hate with what your kid is reading and get involved.   Let the library be your friend.  Have a great summer and happy reading!

First Light

Inspiration

Today's post is about my friend, Sue Templin, who is a fellow photographer.   I have known Sue for many years, and she never ceases to amaze me with the images she captures.   She deals mostly with landscapes and still objects, but her pictures of people are also stunning.   I am amazed with the patience she has to capture the perfect moment.  

This is one of my absolute favorites.   This simple dandelion is a thing of beauty.  Her patience and skills brought this image to us.   I love the editing and the simple phrase to accompany it.   She not only knows how to get the right shot, she also knows how to present a picture. 

This simple sunflower, also shot in macro, is presented on a wood plank.  Brilliant.   Who wouldn't want this hanging in their house.   Simple, rustic, glorious.  But she's not just about flowers.  She also works with vintage/antiques and sets the scene for some great pictures.  

Ok.. so there are flowers in this one too.  But the way she sets it up with the old book is genius.   This one is again printed on a wood plank.   Then there are the landscapes.  While I love to be surrounded by people, Sue is not afraid of the solitary moment.  She has a quiet peacefulness about her.  This is all very evident in her landscapes.   They will make you want to escape to that place!

I believe this one was shot in Michigan.  It looks cold but beautiful all the same.   The reflection off the water is this next one, taken in Ireland makes me want to sit down and read a book on the banks,

I met Sue when our daughters were riding together ... so needless to say we share an interest in barns and horses.   I would be remiss if I did not share a couple of those with you.

I am definitely inspired by her work.  I know that she has a patience and a quiet that I will never have.   But I love to look at her work.   She does sell her images via her Etsy shop.   I encourage everyone to follow her on Facebook, Instagram and to check out her shop.   Her work is amazing and of the highest quality.  She is also a very humble person.... so I am sure she will be taken aback by this blog.   Since she is never one to toot her own horn, I was happy to do it.  Keep those amazing images coming Sue... they give me some serenity.

Some links for you all:

Facebook page to follow:  https://www.facebook.com/firstlightphoto/photos

Etsy shop:  First Light Photo