“Essentially what photography is is life lit up.” — Sam Abell

Thank you for all the new views and likes from last week, it keeps me inspired.

Sunday, 01/05/2025: Posted photo — Mary and Jesus.

Mary and Jesus next to the Paschal candle. Today was the feast of the Magi but the kings were hiding at the time I took this photo. When I was putting up the numbers for the hymns, I liked the look of this setup. The Paschal candle is lite at Easter and represents the light of Christ coming into the world.

Monday, 01/06/2025: Posted photo — End of the Line.

I posted a photo of the ski lift last week when the snow was melting and the trails were wet. This week, the temperature was in the low 20’s F with the wind chill making the real feel temperature of around 3 deg F.

Tuesday, 01/07/2025: Posted photo — Gardner City Hall.

I had my yearly physical yesterday and took this photo. Gardner is the 92 our of the 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts.

Wednesday, 01/08/2025: Post photo — Brussels Sprouts.

Brussels sprouts are named after Brussels, Belgium, where it is believed they were first widely cultivated in the 16th century.

Thursday, 01/08/2025: Posted photo — Abstract Moon.

When I took a photo of the moon today, it came out looking a little abstract. This is due to the fact that the mount of my lens was loose so there was too much movement in the lens. I knew it was loose, but I thought that it would not effect my photos. Guess I was incorrect.

Friday, 01/10/2025: Post photo — Trip Planning.

I am finalizing my plans on my second leadership hike this winter so that I can receive my Winter Upcountry credentials. I am looking for a hike in the White Mountains. I will be selecting a hike that is not one of the 4K mountains, yet the mountain will be challenging. The full planning of the hike is the last requirement for my credentials. I have planned many winter hikes in the Whites, including some of the taller 4K mountains, but none of them for the AMC.

The most difficult part of this hike is to get the one or two mentors that are needed to evaluate me. There are only a few people in the chapter that are qualified and there is another hiking series going on at the same time. Once I am credentialed, I will be able to lead hikes year round, both locally and upcountry in the higher, more dangerous, mountains.

Saturday, 01/11/2025: Post photo — Snow.

The inch of snow that was predicted turned into three plus inches. Not much snow for this time of year. The temperature will be getting warmer and then a freeze will happen, so I went out today to clean off our driveway, walkway, and deck before the freeze.

That is it for now. Stay safe.

“Sumens imagines consolatur et inspirat me.”