Shadows

Lots going on with 'shadows' this week. I'm participating in an online photography class called "Eyes of the Heart" that has a contemplative and spiritual theme to it. I've been 'receiving' photos of shadows all week and sharing them with other class members along with my thoughts on my shadow side. I posted one photo over Dona Nobis Pacem. All this shadow talk reminded me of some photos I took during my month in France last year. I decided to record my presence by catching my shadow image at various places I visited. So, that's me standing on the seawall in Collioure with the beautiful azure Mediterranean lapping at the rocks below. This idea of recording my presence was inspired by a conversation I had with another photographer who told me that she always takes a photo of her own feet at her travel destinations. Feet would work, but I think a shadow is so much more mysterious, don't you?

Sun??

I'm searching for the sun again today; it's certainly not to be found in Iowa right now! What better place to look than the sunny Mediterranean coast at Collioure? I had to dig out the photos from last September to find these memories of the two days I spent at the sea. The days were warm, hot even, and I had to buy some shorts and a top to be comfortable. Okay, I had shorts with me, but the heat and slightly sultry air were good excuses to do a bit of shopping in the town's cute boutiques. Besides you really can't wear the basic black knit shorts in a beach town. I bought white cotton shorts and a turquoise sleeveless tee; I sort of matched the boat you see in the foreground. I spent two and a half days exploring the town's historical sights, strolling along the beach, lounging in the beach-side cafes, and looking at some incredible art, both in Collioure and a nearby town, Ceret. How I'd love to sit on the sand and warm my bones in the bright Mediterranean sunshine right now! I'm sure I'll have to re-visit Collioure again soon...it's supposed to snow here tomorrow.