Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Making molehills out of mountains


When I'm faced with having to learn a new skill or try something that'll require a bit of effort on my part, I tend to procrastinate.  I guess it's because I know there's going to be a learning curve and I'm the type that likes immediate results. The thought of climbing that mountain is exhausting.  So I just sit in limbo rather than get into action.  Part of my rationale is that I'm waiting for the moon and stars to align just perfectly and I'm waiting for that big chunk of time to free up on my schedule.  So rather than get into action, I do nothing. (Sound familiar?)

About two years ago I was introduced to a new technique to enhance my images.  I put off actually trying it (for two years!) because I knew it meant that I would have to sit myself down, study the information and do a lot of trial and error.  It would take extra time, something I've convinced myself that I don't have a lot of.

Anyway, this past weekend I decided to take a little break from my routine and play for just a little while.  I pulled out some images, started watching the training videos, and jumped in.

What surprised me is that it didn't take as long to learn as I thought it would.  (Isn't that the way it always works?)  That mountain wasn't nearly as big as I thought. Or maybe I'm a quick learner or maybe I just didn't pay attention to the time. Whatever the case, what I learned is that those things that seem difficult and time-consuming aren't as bad once you just get started.  My mountain was really just a little molehill.  

Here's another favorite which just goes to show what you can do once you get into action. 


So if you're like me and tend to procrastinate, my advice is to just lean into it.  Get moving.  It's not as difficult as you think.

  If you'd like to see a few more images that I've enhanced, look here:  KD Portfolio  


Saturday, April 16, 2011

Sewa Fare (Joyful Celebration)

Last weekend I volunteered my services to Island Pacific Academy's annual Mardi Gras.  It's always an awesome event with great entertainment, very unique silent auction items (many handcrafted by the students), good food and great fun!  This year's theme was "IPA goes on Safari" and everyone got into the theme by turning out in animal print outfits.  Guests were greeted by an African dance troupe called "Sewa Fare" which means Joyful Celebration.  I love the sound of that!

Turn up your volume and enjoy the music video slideshow!

(click on the link above, it'll take you to my website where you can see the video
and other pics from the event)