Hugh’s Weekly Photo Challenge: Week 21 – Fresh

I have to admit, when I saw the theme for Hugh’s photo challenge this week, I heard my nan’s voice in my head! She used to chastise my grandfather for being ‘fresh’ with her. Of course he did it on purpose, and teased her mercilessly.

Then I thought about how I could reflect the theme and, I have to be honest, I got a little carried away. There are so many possibilities: fresh air; snow; paint; cream; coffee; flowers; water – I could go on. Needless to say, I had trouble deciding, so I settled on a collection of random shots, which incorporate the theme – as far as I see it.

My brother took these shots on a skiing trip, so he gets the credit 🙂

I really enjoy taking part in the challenge. I try to contribute to others when I can, though it has not been easy of late. Sue has a pretty great photo challenge, which I’ve been meaning to take part in for a few weeks now. I’ll try my best to fit it in this week, when the next prompt is released on Thursday.

Thanks for stopping by.

Mel

Hugh’s Weekly Photo Challenge: Week 20 – Solitude

I haven’t taken part in Hugh’s photo challenge for a while, but I felt compelled to this week. Perhaps it’s because my week has been consumed with photography – my eldest daughter has three projects to complete for her photography class and she likes to involve the whole family!

The theme also spoke to me. I’m a solitary person, I think writers are in general; we’re never really alone – what with the characters in our head! I’m at ease in solitude, it soothes me, and allows me to recharge my batteries. It’s not that I don’t like being with people, it’s that I like my own company, too. I can write anywhere and at any time. It’s easy for me to switch off, even in a crowded café, but there’s something to be said for the quiet peace of nature.

When I’m on holiday, I tend to be on the go; exploring a new place so I can soak it in. I usually find a quiet spot to reflect. The first photo, a place named Durdle Door in Dorset, gave the perfect backdrop and I almost got lost in my moment of solitude!

I lived in Dorset for a while, and loved the area. When I got time off, I went exploring with my family. Bournemouth beach is wonderful, especially at six in the morning when there are few people around and the beauty of it settles like a calming breath. The second photo was taken on one of my early morning outings. I took a notebook and a cup of coffee, and let the inspiration flow.

The last two photographs are here because the garden used to be one of my favourite places to relax and find time for myself. The garden was built below the house, and though you can’t see it in the photograph, a decking area provided the perfect viewpoint. I would sit out in the evening or in the morning, and enjoy the scenery.

Thanks to Hugh for providing the inspiration and, as always, thanks for stopping by.

Mel

Hugh’s Photo Challeng: Week 8 – Charity Christmas Tree Topper Challenge

I could not resist taking part in this awesome Christmas Tree Topper Photography Challenge run by the lovely Hugh, from Hugh’s Views & News. This year he is donating to The Dogs Trust.

Here is my tree topper…

I bought this star in January 2000 from Tenerife, and it has shone from the top of my tree every year since. It was the year of my grandfather’s 70th birthday and the whole family went on a cruise to the Caribbean. At the time I was saving to get married, so I bowed out and took a trip to visit my Aunt instead (I didn’t miss the party. He was a Christmas baby, so we celebrated in style!)

In Tenerife, celebrations generally start on the 24th of December and continue until January the 6th. As I flew out on the 27th of December, I timed the festivities perfectly and had an absolute blast! I tasted local cuisine with my Aunt’s friends, and didn’t come back down to earth (there was a lot of drinking), until a few days after I arrived.

The atmosphere was wonderful, and it’s always enjoyable to experience another culture. I learned so much on the trip. I also bought some great decorations, starting with my star.

Thanks for stopping by.

Merry Christmas or, sticking with a Spanish theme – Feliz Navidad.

Mel