Because I’ve been writing so much lately, I have had to put other job/hobby things on hold for a while. But this weekend, a couple of girls in our youth group and I traipsed around town to capture the days of their friendship before one goes off to college and the other moves with her family to Atlanta.

Aside from writing (my first hobby/job love), flitting about town with a couple of girls and my camera is one of my most favorite things to do. I spent nearly three hours with them, a lot longer than I usually take. But with each click and laugh and freeze frame, I discovered again my love for photography. I still have so much to learn about it all, but I’m not looking to make a living of it. Even if I never learn any more than I know right now, I think I’ll be happy. Life can be so lovely through the lens of my camera. I’m sure I’ll have to share more from this photo shoot with you because these two are ever so cute.

And to those of you who mentioned you are willing to guest post, a heartfelt thank you. I will contact you with more details in the days to come.

My South African friend Lisa-Jo has travelled all over the world and has one of my favorite ‘about’ pages on her blog. She is sharing some of her favorite places in the world today and has invited us to play along. And so I am.  My favorite places in the world are…

Harbour Town at sunset on Hilton Head Island, SC

In the car with my sister.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Mom’s living room.

My front porch in the spring.

There are so many more, but only these made the cut. Wanna play? Head on over to Gypsy Mama and link up.

Sometimes when it’s hard to see with the eyes I’ve been given, I strap on my camera and pray for new ones. I did that yesterday. It helped.

Any budding photographers out there who don’t want to spend a lot of money but would like to make their pictures pop?  I hesitate to post this because I would love for you to think that every photo I take is frame-worthy. In the spirit of being technically vulnerable, I introduce you to the beauty of Picnik.

I admit this one may be a bit over-done, but it’s fun to play around with. They also have a premium service you can pay for, but I have been able to get a lot out of the free one so far. I don’t use it for photos I plan to print or for ones I shoot for other people, but so far I really like it for blog post photos.

Now go upload something and impress yourself! If you do it and have a great before and after, post it and let me know in the comments. I love a good before and after shot.

Here’s to melty chocolate, make-believe and neighborhood parties. Shared with Musings of a Housewife on the night we get an extra hour.