Laura Tucker

Please join me on my new blog!

2010-04-14T18:04:00.000-07:00

Hello,

I have started a new blog - Please join me at www.lauratucker.com/blog

Terrace Mountain Fire Flares Up

2009-08-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

I happened to have my "fun camera" with me yesterday when I went for a hike to the beach at Knox Mountain. Here are some images of the incredible smoke billowing above Okanagan Lake. My thoughts are with the thousands of people who had to leave their homes just after being allowed to return on Thursday.

Finding Inspiration at Home

2009-07-20T21:24:00.000-07:00

Thirty-five years ago, a family tradition was born. The first Archer Family Barbecue was held in July 1974. My grandfather, Syd Archer had one brother, Vern Archer. Earlier that year, Vern and his wife Pat had lost their youngest child, Mary, as a result of a brain injury that followed a bicycle accident. I was just seven at the time, but I remember the sadness and sense of loss that swept my family. That summer, the “Syd Archers” and the “Vern Archers” decided that it was important to spend time together and the first AFB was held. The family that grieved together wanted to play together. Year in and year out, the mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and cousins gathered to celebrate. Eventually, the next generation was included and my second cousins and I got to know each other. When we lost my cousin Paul in a car accident several years ago, my generation experienced the strengthening of family ties that our parents and grandparents had before us.
The AFB is typically scheduled around Canada Day. Every year politics, religion and sport are the topic of sometimes heated discussion, but nothing is more interesting to members of the clan than what everyone has been up to in the year(s) gone by. I don’t know when the awards started, but every year they are passed from one illustrious achiever to another. The much-coveted awards include: The Golden Bedpan, Martha Moose (formerly Marty Moose), Macho Mark and the Miscellaneous Mike Awards. This year, my cousin Martha and I took the pursuit of excellence to a new level – we lobbied online from Australia and Kelowna. While it does seem that in order to have an award named after you the honoree’s name must start with M, the most revered awards are named after our patriarchs, Syd Archer and Vern Archer.
This year the Vern Archer award went to a very special group of people who have been tested this year. Just before Easter, my cousin Mary Archer had a horrific accident in the hospital. Following minor surgery, she fell and incurred a brain injury. Pregnant at the time, she was kept alive to nurture the new life inside. Weeks went by, and no news was good news as the focus was entirely on the survival of the baby. Mary’s partner Bob, her parents Paul and Heather and her brother Alastair have been tireless in their determination and support for the baby and for Mary, whose job it seemed to give life before letting go of her own.
At some point long after life support would have been withdrawn had she not been pregnant, things started to change – quickly and dramatically. Mary began to respond to voices and then people. Despite countless medications, tubes and a tracheotomy, she began to speak. The doctors were stunned – death was no longer a foregone conclusion. On June 25, Isabella was born, healthy and beautiful. Tonight, as Isabella, her father Bob, grandparents Paul and Heather, uncle Ali and Mary, in absentia, accepted their award, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house.
One of the laws of the Universe, the Law of Polarity states that for negative there is a positive. Where there is grief, there is joy. Where there is suffering, there is healing. Where there is life, there is death. Well, not exactly, this time. The road to recovery will be challenging, but something tells me that Mary will make good on the promise she made to her Dad today. She’ll be at the Archer Family Barbecue next year to claim her own award. Since her name starts with an M, I propose a new award be added to the roster – The Mighty Mary.

Laura (Syd Archer) Tucker
Toronto, July 18, 2009

Sometimes, there are no words....

2009-06-24T22:24:00.000-07:00

Crater Lake

2009-06-07T07:13:00.000-07:00

I often catch myself wondering how different geographic and geologic formations are made. On this trip I have driven through desert, ancient flood planes and have marveled at the reach of the Ponderosa Pine. I had seen pictures of Crater Lake, but I was unprepared for how mind-blowing Crater Lake would be!

The crater was created by a volcanic eruption over ten times the size of Mount St Helen billions of years ago. The smaller volcano in the middle of the lake followed. Talk about a "power spot"! Dizzy with altitude and surprised by my brief return to winter, I was racing with storm clouds behind me to create these images.

Note to self: revisit in August when the trails are sure to be open and open skies will create the glacier teal waters!

Kelowna, BC to Yakima, WA!

2009-06-05T23:30:00.000-07:00

Day One of the Practical Mysticism road trip was awesome! Here are a few pictures I took on the way. It was hot, hot, hot! I found out why sandals are not such a great idea in the desert and had the chance to break in my new cowboy boots and hat. Not only do they protect your feet from thorny desert stuff, cowboy boots are cooler and easier to drive in than hiking boots. "Go figure," thought the city girl...

It was a great day for the road warrior! There is nothing I enjoy more than going somewhere I've never been and seeing something I've never seen. It has been a long time since my camera called me. Fortunately, I found flow today, the first day out.

Late Spring Surprise

2008-05-02T09:04:00.001-07:00

One of the best things about being a photographer is occasionally having the opportunity to capture something that you don't usually see. Last Wednesday morning was one of those days. The nights had been hovering just below freezing and this field on Glenmore Road was a visual treat! As I was driving along, the shock of white in the field drew my attention. I doubled back before I realized that I did not have my SLR camera with me. I had brought it into the house the night before.

My point and shoot camera just wasn't going to cut it this time. I checked my odometer - I was only 8 km from home. I thought I might get a similar sight the next morning, but the little voice in my head said "go home and get the camera".
Am I ever glad I listened! The next morning the irrigation had moved further from the fence and it hasn't dipped below freezing since. This was truly a unique start to the day.

Welcome Me Back!

2008-02-25T15:34:00.001-08:00

It has been a very introspective time since I last wrote. Some quick thoughts before I move forward:

I'm not into blogging unless I've got something to say...
I'm still a fair weather photographer - bring on Spring!
Perhaps I'd be more motivated to work on images if I didn't have to wait for my 3 year old laptop to chug along in Photoshop.
Perhaps I'd be more motivated to blog if I didn't lose the connection and lose everything I'd written the last 2 times I dedicated some time to it. Time to upgrade some equipment before I lose my patience.
I'm doing some research and deciding whether or not it's time to cross over and buy a Mac, particularly now that it runs Windows simultaneously. If anyone techie has anything to say, I'd like to hear from you in the comments section.

Moving right along, for those of you who are wondering where I've "been" the last couple of months, I'll fill you in as best I can. I had written this all before I lost my entry, and now have no idea where to begin again!

I seem to be on 5 year cycles of re-inventing myself. As I begin this cycle, I am certain that my next step is to pull all the disparate things I do into one cohesive package. I'm summarizing - it's taken me 2 months to come to this conclusion! I haven’t got the faintest idea how I’m going to do it, but I’m tired of pulling myself in several different directions at the same time. Between consulting, the photography I want to do, the teaching I want to do, the relationships I want to have, the lifestyle I envision for myself – I am spreading myself too thin. So, without losing any momentum, I am planning to consolidate. I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ll never reach my full potential if I keep trying to be all things to all people.

Pop culture and pop psychology is playing a small role in this voyage of discovery. Thanks to The Secret, I’ll be seeing Jack Canfield here in Kelowna next Monday, and attending a course with James Ray in San Francisco at the end of June. I cringe at the thought of being identified with a trend. It is my nature to be counter-culture. I accept that what's popular to some has made me aware of people and resources that would have been out of my grasp without the exposure these teachers are receiving. Nothing is more attractive to me now than learning from leaders in their field among other like-minded individuals. I am happy that I don’t have to do it all alone.

So, I’m still going to blog, and of course there will still be photographs to illustrate. As a part of pulling it all together, I’m going to take you along for the ride.

Finding Joy in the "Little Things"

2007-12-22T14:47:00.001-08:00

Where did 2007 go, especially the last month?!? I'm back to wish everyone Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year for 2008. I have named this year's Christmas image "Little Things" to celebrate how small gestures and tiniest details can have a tremendous impact on the big picture.

I have always been attentive to detail. As an outdoor photographer, sometimes the greatest challenge is to isolate meaningful detail within a chaotic environment. Nature has its own grand plan, but to capture and communicate, within a two dimensional frame, the essence of a place, brings me joy. When other people get excited by one of my images, it multiplies that feeling tenfold.

I'm excited about a lot these days. I've had a great year, capped off by the trip to Utah and a couple of recent developments on both the home and work front. I will be taking time over the holidays to enjoy the company of friends and family. I am under no illusion that this will be a restful couple of weeks, but I hope to carve out some time to work on a few photo projects. Watch for some updates to my main website www.lauratucker.com and some news about upcoming workshop opportunities.

Until then, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Something Unexpected

2007-11-27T13:48:00.000-08:00

There are so many things about this image taken along Scenic Byway 12 that are unexpected that I just had to get online and post it. First, the moment itself was an unexpected delight. We were driving from Capitol Reef National Park en route to Zion, when everything came together all at once. It was one of those highway corners that no doubt causes people to exclaim with joy any time of day. What we were given was a spectacular sunrise. It was exhilarating, working with the light and against time, as this magic light is fleeting.

The experience of reviewing my images that night was significantly less exhilarating. How was it possible to kill one of the most spectacular sunrises I had ever witnessed? Well, that was then and this is now. I'm reviewing my images to select a "Top 20" to show before a presentation tonight. This imaged beckoned to me, asking for some attention. After a few tweaks and a crop, it now represents that morning's glorious display. It's amazing what a little time can do with both the memory of an event and the objectivity of my eye.

The Solitary Tree

2007-11-18T12:42:00.000-08:00

My eye is always drawn to The Solitary Tree. It speaks to me in many different ways. Often, the tree is just on the outside of a community of trees - a forest that provides shelter. This tree is perched on top of a cliff, exposed to the elements. Its position is not precarious. It's getting everything it needs to survive. The universe is open to the tree - it adds character to the tree as the years go by and provides space for the tree to grow. Over the years, the wind may twist the tree and leave tracks of time on its exterior, but the basic character of the tree is unchanged. As everything changes with time, the ground may eventually erode from underneath this tree, causing it to shift its position in the world in order to thrive.

Today I am this tree.

Henrieville, Utah

2007-11-04T23:18:00.001-08:00

Driving from Bryce Canyon to Escalante, my attention was grabbed by this abandoned corner store in Henrieville, Utah. I'm pretty sure the Coca-Cola sign had everything to do with my attraction to this site. My dad worked for Coke most of his adult life, and I spent my high school summers working at the Coca-Cola office in Toronto. I looked up Henrieville online tonight to see what I could learn. Its population in 2000 was 159, and the population of its zip code 84736 in 2007 is 961 according to another site I found. In either case, Henrieville is truly a small western town.

After days of shooting the "grand landscape" at Bryce Canyon, it was a lot of fun to settle in and work at closer range at this site. In fact, I noticed that I was feeling quite refreshed after an hour or so of shooting; I was exercising different visual muscles.

Texture is one of my favourite subjects. Narrowing my vision to the details of a structure gives me the opportunity to express my vision by creating abstract images. Sometimes I the feedback I receive when I show my images is that I made something out of nothing. The first couple of times I heard this comment, I wondered if it was derogatory. It may have been, but I also think that making something out of nothing is a defining characteristic of photography as art. What does a photographer do? We go out into the world, beyond the creature comforts of a studio, and bring home a vision of the world that is uniquely our own.....on a good day, anyways!

Zion National Park

2007-10-29T23:00:00.000-07:00

After the relative isolation of Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef National Parks, entering Zion came as a bit of a culture shock. Located about 150 miles north-east of Las Vegas, Zion is more accessible than the previous parks and towns we visited. A few years ago, the main canyon was so over-run with vehicle traffic that a shuttle system was implemented to reduce smog and the headache of not being able to find parking in the canyon. The up side of the increase in human traffic was the corresponding increase in the amenities and restaurants in Springdale. (Check out The Spotted Dog restaurant if you're ever in town. The owner had fabulous taste in the kitchen and the photographic art hanging throughout the dining rooms.) There's always an up side!

I took this picture on our way into Zion for the first time. We had stopped at the side of the road to gawk at the magnificent canyon walls. There is no denying it - drastically different from the other parks we had visited, Zion is a knock-out in it's own right. I had been fighting to make "nature" images, trying to crop out any sign of people and our trappings. I remember turning around and leaning on my tripod, gazing to look at the way the sky was mimicking the crest of the canyon wall. I envisioned the shot from the other side of the vehicles, but I was either too tired or lazy to make the walk. So I thought, "I'll just take a grab shot" to show what it was like.

Looking through the camera mounted on my tripod, I started composing the image. I tried to go over the cars, but that didn't work. Then I gave in and started to work the cars in to the image. Once I had the shot lined up, it made me laugh out loud. Before I had realized it happened, the vehicles had become an integral part of the image. It wasn't a grab shot after all, this image was telling a story.

Who Else Thinks This is Funny?

2007-10-24T22:29:00.001-07:00

Another one thanks to "The Fun Camera"....Sign on the Best Western outside of Zion National Park..... (W)ho makes the pies???

Click on the picture if you need to see a slightly larger version :)

P.S. We've reached a milestone - over 1000 visitors since the inception of the blog - a milestone!

The Fun Camera

2007-10-20T23:32:00.001-07:00

Just before leaving Kelowna for Utah, I made a last minute purchase - "The Fun Camera". For months I have been berating myself for not having a small digital camera I can take anywhere with me. Hiking The Chief this summer without a single picture to capture the experience must have pushed me over the edge. I also knew that for all the times Beth and I have traveled together, we have no pictures of ourselves - photographers are much happier BEHIND the camera. So, with just enough time to charge a battery before heading to the airport, I picked one up.

After a crash course on the plane to Calgary, The Fun Camera has been a terrific addition to my Canon arsenal. I made many images that I would not have made the time for otherwise, including gems like the one above. I re-discovered old skills like how to "point-and-shoot", and developed new skills like holding the camera steady with my arms extended and how to take a self portrait with one arm extended. This last skill is not to be under-rated - it's not easy to take a flattering self portrait. In fact I'd say it's impossible. But here's one of Beth and I after climbing out of Spooky Canyon. For having had a nose to nose encounter with a rattlesnake and having lost the desert trail back up out of the canyon, I'd say we look pretty good!

I'm on my way home from a very windy Las Vegas in the morning. However, I will continue to blog about the trip in order once I've had a chance to review my images from Capitol Reef and Zion National Parks.

Spooky Canyon

2007-10-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

For my first visit to a slot canyon, everything about the trip to Spooky Canyon was a delight. After receiving the tip to go to this more remote slot canyon where there would be fewer interruptions, we set out from Escalante and followed Hole in the Rock Road to our destination. The hike down the canyon was steep, with a couple of scary moments - a couple of mind over matter slopes and a rattlesnake at the bottom of the gorge, but it was worth bringing all the gear for this beautiful canyon.

Despite its name, Spooky Canyon was incredibly peaceful. The narrowest passage was about 10 inches wide, requiring dragging equipment and crawling into corners when there were passers-by.

After the long hot hike down into the canyon, the cool air of the hidden slot was refreshing. The light was reflecting off the walls, creating patterns and textures to die for. It is easy to see why so many photographers become addicted to these beautiful crevasses in the earth's crust.

Bryce Canyon, Utah

2007-10-13T22:07:00.000-07:00

Hello from Bryce Canyon, Utah! I'm posting this image as a teaser, and to let my family and friends know I'm safe, sound and having a great time. I'll be back tonight to write after another day of shooting. Happy trails.....

....Well, I'm back. After a couple of long shooting days at Bryce Canyon National Park, I'm ready to reflect on some of what I've seen. Bryce is located between 8000 and 9000 feet. The air is cooler and thinner up here! Yesterday we got up before sunrise and headed out in the dark to Sunset Point. Having arrived after dark the night before, I had only other photographers' images to help me imagine what might appear before my eyes.

The first morning, Beth and I were the first to arrive, and we successfully staked out the best vantage point at Sunset Point. The canyon at sunrise did not disappoint. As the sun edged its way up due east, it gradually illuminated the canyon, revealing it in all its splendour. All around the bowl of the rim were the hundreds, if not thousands, of hoodoos that form The Silent City, carved in the rock over thousands of years. It is truly spectacular.

The mornings were cold, but it was well worth getting up early. This morning we chose Inspiration Point, and enjoyed a short hike along the Rim Trail wearing headlights to guide us in the dark. It was quite a sensation, knowing the canyon was just a few steps to the right. Once settled for sunrise, I realized we were walking along the top of the hoodoos of the future.

Bryce Canyon is not easy to photograph! At least not without feeling like an imitator. There are images of Bryce Canyon everywhere. Regardless of wanting to "make it my own", these hoodoos are a magnet for the camera. After getting this out of my system, some of my favourite images don't show the canyon at all!

View from Knox Mountain

2007-10-08T12:46:00.000-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving from Kelowna! I'll be heading out with my camera a little later on this beautiful day. These images were taken a couple of weeks ago from Knox Mountain, just minutes from my home. I'm looking south over Okanagan Lake towards Peachland. In the background is Okanagan Mountain Park, which burned in the fires of 2003. In the foreground of the top image is part of downtown Kelowna, including The Grand Resort and Hotel, and Prospera Place where the Kelowna Rockets play and concerts are held. I'm looking forward to seeing Michael Buble there in January.

In the second image, another prominent Kelowna landmark is in view - the lumber mill. The mill is at the base of Knox Mountain. I like that you can see one of the houseboats at the bottom left that populate the bay, just beyond the mill. The day was relatively cool, but must have been good for sailing as the boats were certainly out. The last thing to notice is the new bridge that is under construction. Kelowna is an ever-changing cityscape. It has to be to accommodate the rapid growth as more and more people make this their principal and second residence.

The final image here was taken by swinging my camera around to the right, just in time to catch this woman running one of the trails with her dog. I'm dying to get out there today, so that's all folks! Happy Thanksgiving :)

Harvest

2007-09-30T23:16:00.001-07:00

As September draws to a close, the Okanagan Valley is at the height of the harvest season. The hay is cut and in bales, and the trees in the orchards are heavy with fruit. The Fall Wine Festival started on Friday, and runs through to next weekend. I read in the paper that it is the only wine festival in North America that takes place at during the harvest of the grapes. I bought some coronation grapes at a fruit stand along the highway today and they are absolutely delicious - like candy on a vine.

These images were taken last week along Glenmore Road. I have driven by these fields several times, wishing I had a few minutes to stop when the sun was low in the sky. I got my chance and had a lot of fun playing with the light on the field. I love shooting backlit scenes like this. They are challenging, because the sun has to be kept out of the lens to avoid lens flare. But it is worth it, because the light and the textures can be quite dramatic. I am very satisfied with all three of these images, particularly the one below - the field is iridescent, a golden green that glows. I like the way the line and texture flows. creating the glow of the end of a late summer's day. Seen in an abstraction like this, it is easy to understand where the phrase "the fabric of the land" originated.

Can't see the railway for the trees....

2007-09-19T21:26:00.001-07:00

After such a long gap between entries, I feel I must apologize for the delay. I have been across the country and back to a wedding in Toronto, among other things. Art Walk was a wonderful experience. I learned lots, and enjoyed the company of many other artists in the Okanagan Valley. This was one of the first public showings of my work and it was a real joy to watch the expression on people's faces when they saw my work. I'm looking forward to participating again next year. Last week I delivered three large art prints to "State of the Art" gallery on Bayview Ave in Toronto. The images I selected were seasonal - Osoyoos in Winter (Winter Wonderland), Change of Season and Red Embrace from the galleries at www.lauratucker.com. They look great enlarged to 30x45 and printed on canvas!

The image I chose for this blog entry is one of my favourites. The colours have not reached their peak across the country just yet. In fact, I'll be in Utah around the time they peak this year, photographing autumn in Zion, Bryce Canyon and other US national parks. I couldn't help but celebrate when I heard how strong the Canadian dollar is. Although it's bad for the BC economy, I'm selfishly hoping it holds on for a few weeks.

Anyways, this photograph reminds me of a poster of a watercolour painting I bought as a second year university student, many moons ago. I never loved its colours (it was in tones of pinks and greys), but I did love its texture. A couple of years ago I was in Sundridge, Ontario for a wedding over Thanksgiving. I spent a half day photographing the autumn colours. Although we have mountains and water here in British Columbia, there is nothing like the autumn colours in Eastern Canada. That year was particularly brilliant.

The colour and texture epitomize my style of photography, but there is something else I like - is it an image of a forest, or is the main subject less obvious - the railway running through the forest? There are no perfectly straight horizontal lines in nature. I am shooting across a rail bed. Thank goodness the wind was perfectly still. To get that depth of field using a telephoto lens would have required the shutter to be open for quite some time. The combination of things that have to go right to get an image like this is exactly what I love about outdoor photography, and what so many people fail to appreciate. There are no accidents.

First, you have to get there. Second, you have to know what tools to use to capture what is in you mind's eye. Next, the conditions have to be right. Then, you compose and deliberately create. I'm looking forward to an autumn full of creating this year.

Art Walk 2007

2007-09-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

Labour Day Weekend - who can believe it! I can attest to the fact that this is a chorus heard across the nation this weekend as students (and teachers) prepare for the new school year and family holidays draw to a close. Maybe it is because I used to be a teacher that September 1st functions like a New Year's Day for me. Time to get back to work, so to speak - I worked pretty hard this summer. One of the luxuries of being single is being able to plan vacation time outside peak season. And who wants to go anywhere when you live in the Okanagan Valley, anyways? I'm looking forward to a trip to Utah's National Parks later this autumn - ten glorious days of shooting red rock canyons with my photographer friend, Beth, the most Canadian American you could ever hope to have as a friend. (Hi Beth!)

One of the events I have been looking forward to this year is Art Walk in Lake Country, just north of Kelowna. I'll be exhibiting eight prints for show and sale next weekend. Art Walk is an annual arts festival featuring artists from the Okanagan Valley. I'm looking forward to it. Last year I checked it out and was pleasantly surprised. I hope I don't spend more money than I make!

Before I head back out with my camera, I'll say a word or two about the image above. This image of Okanagan Lake was taken at the end of an easy hike at the base of Knox Mountain near Paul's Tomb, at the beach. Lately I have been going up and over Knox Mountain without a camera, but this image is a good reminder of a great location close to home. Maybe next time I'll forego the exercise in favour of a photo opportunity. But then again, didn't I just say that September 1st is my New Years??

The Stawamus Chief

2007-08-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

The Stawamus Chief is a massive granite rock formation located in Squamish. As you drive up the Sea to Sky Highway, it is a very imposing sight - a shear rock cliff that seems to go up forever as you drive by.

Early in the summer, my friend Darlene and I discovered that we both had a common goal - to hike "The Chief". I had hiked to the first peak five years ago, while visiting Whistler on business. I remembered it was much more difficult than I anticipated, and being an inexperienced hiker, there were some pretty challenging moments on the way up and particularly on the way down. I had always wanted to go back a little better prepared than the last time. Part of being better prepared meant not doing the hike on my own, so it was great to have a friend who wanted to tackle it.

And so, the training began. We would hike Knox Mountain here in Kelowna a couple of times a week. As it turned out, this was pretty good training for the 700 metre ascent up the back of The Chief. At dinner the night before, I was feeling pretty confident and said, "Maybe it's not as hard as I remember..."

Yeah, right - it was much harder than I remembered, but well worth the effort. I'm wishing I had pictures from the top that day, but I resolved to carry only the water I could drink and the food I would eat. One of these days I'll get a small camera, just for fun! For now, you'll have to imagine the view after the climb. It was a beautiful, sunny day, with puffy clouds dotting the sky. We hiked to the second peak, so had a panoramic view of mountains, lakes, Squamish, even a glacier off in the distance. It took us just under 2 hours of stairs, rocks, ladders and ropes to reach the top. The half hour or so we spent basking in the sun at the top was heavenly.

After we returned to sea level, I grabbed my camera and made these images. The Chief is difficult to photograph because of its size and location. I used a wide angle lens to get as much of it in the frame as possible, positioning my camera just so to avoid the power lines running just above the frame. I'd like to try to photograph The Chief from across the valley using a telephoto lens the next time I make the trip, and of course the hike! Yes, I'd do it again in a heartbeat and maybe one of these days I'll be able to keep a bounce in my step and a song on my lips like the guy we nick-named "Skippy". Skippy and his friends passed us not once, but two or three times. The last time we saw him, even his friends were cursing - "don't you ever stop singing?!?@#@!?"

Other memorable moments included helping Mimi, a rather large dog, from behind. She was frightened and her owner could not reach down to lift her up. I guess you never know where your hand is going to end up on a day like that! We passed Mimi and her owner, thinking they would never make it to the top. After we'd been there about 15 minutes, there was Mimi, running around, trying to find her way out of the nightmare she didn't sign up for.

All in all, it was a great day, a great hike, with many rewards over the course of the weekend. My only regret is that we didn't have someone take our grimy picture at the base of The Chief, covered head to toe in dirt with big smiles on our faces. Next time, for sure! I seem to be developing a fondness for hiking up things. Next up is The Grouse Grind in September, which means I'd better start hauling my butt up Knox Mountain again.....

Capture & Communicate Your Creative Vision - OPAW 2007

2007-08-13T22:05:00.001-07:00

It is the end of the day, and I want to reflect on the remarkable experience of my first photography workshop, co-facilitated with Judy Burns. Although I regularly facilitate meetings and teach people in my consulting role, it has been a long time since I found myself at the front of a classroom of any kind. What a remarkable experience to help people better understand and use an art form they are passionate about to communicate their vision of the world!

We asked our fifteen workshop participants to produce a body of work with a common theme - to communicate a sense of place. That "place" could be literal, or it could be of their own creation. We took them down to Kelowna's City Park, and let them loose on the waterfront. After one evening shooting session, Judy and I each showed the results of our own effort at this assignment. The two collections of images presented two entirely different ways of seeing and engaging with the space of the park. We returned to City Park early the next morning for a second session, followed by a furious editing session where everyone sorted through their images and assembled their presentations.

When it came time to see everyone's images, it was absolutely thrilling. Without exception, our "students" took the assignment to heart. They tried new techniques, wrangled with new equipment, and most importantly, opened themselves to feedback from the group.

Having attended several successful photography workshops for my own development, I know how hard every one of these lovely people worked. The energy that we put in as instructors was rewarded with a similar gift in kind. After this experience, I am motivated and inspired to get out and create for the love of my craft.

Thanks to all who participated for your detailed and constructive feedback both during and after the course.

(Note: for anyone who is reading this and is interested in hearing about future workshops, please visit the workshop page at www.lauratucker.com and fill out the online form.)

Assignment - "Play"

2007-08-12T20:14:00.001-07:00

As part of our weekend workshop at the Okanagan Photographic Arts Workshop, I gave myself the same assignment that our participants received. The goal was to produce a thematic body of work that gave a "sense of place" to our site - the Kelowna waterfront at City Park. Prior to shooting, I gave some thought to the theme I wanted to convey - "play". If there is one thing that Kelowna has to offer residents and tourists alike, it is a playground, especially in the summer.

I had anticipated images of adults and their toys - boats, sea-doos, parasailing. And while they were present, I was especially captivated by the children that day. These three images are a selection of some of my favourite images from my presentation to the class.

The workshop itself was a very rewarding experience. I will follow up with an article about it after a good night's sleep!

Afternoon at Hardy Falls

2007-08-05T15:15:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity a few weeks ago to spend an afternoon with my friend Melanie. Photography is one of her passions, too, so it was great to go and spend a chunk of time with someone who doesn't mind slowing down to spend the time necessary to capture some quality images. Hardy Falls is in Peachland. We hiked in from Mel's place, but I understand there is a relatively easy way to access the falls off Highway 97. (What fun would that be?!?:)) With my new camera and old, heavy tripod strapped to my back, we climbed down the rock wall adjacent to the waterfall. I'll say no more about that experience except to say that I am no mountain goat, and a lighter tripod is now at the top of my shopping list!

Anyways, I loved the waterfall - and it's so close to home! There were plenty of places to perch on a rock with the tripod and take these long exposure images. It had been a while since I've photographed moving water. I love the way the water paints its path on the image, creating a simultaneous sense of movement and serenity. The trick to is to be very careful about exposure - you want the water to be white, but not so much that detail is lost in the highlights.

Although this next image looks like it might be an underwater shot, it isn't! These plants were growing on the rock wall, just above eye level. I've used one of my favourite techniques here. When the subject matter is right, a "dreamscape" can be created using one sharp image superimposed by the same composition, deliberately blurred to create the painterly, or dream-like effect.

Here's a picture of Mel, hard at work creating her own images! Whatever it takes to get the shot :)

A note to follow up on last week's entry: the talk at Mosaic went very well. Next up is the Okanagan Photographic Arts Workshop next weekend at the UBC Okanagan campus. We'll be taking our workshop participants to an undisclosed location to unleash their creativity. Can't wait!

Okanagan Institute Presents - Discoveries

2007-07-31T22:58:00.000-07:00

I know this is last minute, but I thought I would publicize my first photography speaking engagement here in Kelowna. The feedback I have received on the article and images in Okanagan Arts has been extremely positive. As an adjunct to that article, I have been invited to participate in the Imagine Summer series of readings at Mosaic books this Thursday, August 2, at 4:30 pm.

I'm presently preparing some prints to bring along with me and hoping I will come up with something absolutely brilliant to say! It's been a while since I've spoken to a group, but I am one of those oddballs who actually enjoys public speaking.

Just writing that down makes me remember my first public speaking experience. I don't think I was much older than ten, and I took home several awards for my speech "Life in the Year 2000". Yes, I regaled my audience with predictions on fashion, transportation and entertainment. My vision of the future when I would be at the ripe old age of somewhere in my 30s was a cross between The Jetsons and Star Wars. I'd love to have a copy of that speech now. It was published in our newspaper and my friend Louise, who never threw anything away, had every copy of every edition of that paper. I wonder what happened to them...

Anyways, I don't think I'll have a stack of cue cards or commit anything to memory for Thursday's session. The theme of the afternoon is Discoveries - I couldn't come up with anything more appropriate than that. Two of my cousins gave me a card as part of a going away gift before relocated to Kelowna. It hangs on my fridge today. It reads:

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. EXPLORE. DREAM. DISCOVER."
(Unknown)

I read that card every morning. It helps when I am homesick for family and friends, causing me to second guess my intentions and wonder if it would be better to play it safe in life. It's funny how a little thing like the right card is not a little thing at all.

Enough pondering, I have prints to make!

For any one local who is interested, the website pictured above is http://www.okanaganinstitute.com/

Wish me luck!

Top of Terrace Mountain

2007-07-22T23:21:00.000-07:00

At 1950 meters (6400 feet), Terrace Mountain is the highest peak in the Kelowna and Vernon area. The lookout trail is accessible by taking Bear Creek Forest Service Road and then Esperon Forest Service Road on the west side of Okanagan Lake. I wouldn't attempt it unless on a quad or a heavy duty 4x4. This ascent was a definite highlight of a recent day trip. Much to my surprise, the "look-out" is the peak of the mountain. The road goes right to the top! From there, you are rewarded with a 360 degree view of Vernon to the north-east (the first image), Winfield and Kelowna to the south-east.

To the north is Short's Canyon, pictured above. Missing from my digital images are the peaks of the Coast Mountains to the west. There was a lot of good stuff, so many of my images are on slide film. I still love to treat myself to Velvia once in a while. I will post some once I get them scanned.

As you can see, the weather was unsettled that day. This thunderstorm moved north along Okanagan lake, passing us by up top of the mountain. I was reminded again of a trip to Arizona when my friends and I were caught in a canyon during a thunderstorm. This was far less traumatic, as there was no lightning, and the storm passed by at a safe distance.

This final image is of the Duo Via lakes, which stood out like a couple of sapphires from my vantage point. If you look closely, you can see the beginning of pine beetle kill at the closest edge of the smaller lake. No doubt this landscape will be dramatically altered before too much time passes. After a day like this, I am left breathless at the sight of beautiful landscape, as always. However, it is becoming difficult to escape a sense of dread as the race against the pine beetle continues - it's like the tortoise trying to catch up to the hare.

Secret Hideaway

2007-07-18T21:23:00.000-07:00

Up in the hills, far above Kelowna, lies a secret hideaway. In my last blog entry you got a look at its upscale "facilities", now I'm showing you a little bit of the inside. It was hard not to feel like a voyeur, setting up my tripod to capture a snippet here and there of this rustic retreat.

We must have just missed the occupants, as the wildflowers in the coffee can were still fresh. The walls literally tell the story - people do enjoy themselves here!

Outhouses of the Wild West

2007-07-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

When this woman heads up into the hills for a day of the great outdoors, there is one concern that dominates all others - am I going to have to pee in the woods? I was well into my thirties when my lack of experience in this area sent two of my closest friends into fits of hysteria deep into a canyon in Arizona. Here in the semi-arid climate of the Okanagan Valley, hydration is extremely important in order to avoid headaches and nosebleeds. I think the nosebleed thing is a little unique - my nose hasn't fully acclimatized, even after two years. Anyways, this concern was amplified as I was traveling with a male companion with whom I wouldn't normally discuss bodily functions. (Note - for me, that includes the entire gender...) So, off we went, up, up into the mountains in search of scenery and minerals. I packed a full compliment of water and threw the essential roll of TP into my bag with a groan that may have been audible at fifty feet.

Never in a million years would I have expected to have the relative luxury of using outhouses in the middle of nowhere throughout the day. I'm not joking - when I needed one, they'd just turn up! Not only that, they got nicer as the day went on. The first rest stop, I'm going to call "A Room With A View" - both in and out. How I wish I had taken a picture of me in the "window". Moments after I stepped out, a huge logging truck went screaming by on the road. I think I would have gone into cardiac arrest if it had been any earlier.

If you know me as a photographer, you know that I have a thing for hardware, so I made use of the subject material to grab a couple of artsy shots before sauntering along, pleased as punch for dodging the bullet.

A few hours later, we arrived at one of the most interesting places I've ever seen. I'm not even sure how to describe it, but someone has put a lot of effort into constructing a little getaway in the woods. One of the first things I noticed was this sign pointing to the "men's room", which I surmise was anywhere a safe distance from the "house". I never discovered if there was an actual facility, because my attention was dominated by this glorious structure in exactly the opposite direction.

No view here - this commode was completely enclosed and in immaculate condition! The day was taking on an unusual theme, but it was completely justified. We were killing ourselves laughing and we hadn't seen the best of it yet.

Whoever these people are, they have the best sense of humour. Don't bother to ask me where this place is. Even if I remembered how to get there, I wouldn't tell, just out of respect for their ingenuity and their creative use of Bart Simpson.

The things you see in the woods! Have a great week - hope this made you chuckle.

Laura

Destruction of the Mountain Pine Beetle

2007-06-25T18:28:00.001-07:00

The older I get, the more sure I am becoming that there is no such thing as coincidence. I've recently gained some recognition for being able to tell a story with images and words. Yesterday I went for a ride up in to the mountains just outside of Kelowna, and today I have a story to tell.

If you live in Canada and read or watch the news, you've probably heard of the Mountain Pine Beetle. This insect has been ravaging the forests of the BC Interior for several years now. The warmer winters and containment of forest fires have created ideal conditions for the survival of this hungry species. I've driven through some infested areas before, but I had no perspective on how rapidly the forests are being torn down in an attempt to contain the beetle and harvest the wood from the dead trees before it rots or turns blue, which makes it undesirable for the major lumber markets.

My guide for the day was Roger, a friend who has staked a claim up in the mountains and offered to take me and my camera off the beaten path when he went out prospecting for the day. These pictures were taken at his claim site; a site that just last year was a dense forest. Not having been up to the area since the snow melted, Roger's surprise at what we found was evident. I'm not sure how much of his work has been affected by the dramatic change in the landscape, but I suspect the impact is significant.

If every picture tells a story, then I'm naming this one above "The Last Stand". This group of trees was left to stand in the midst of the clear cut. From what I learned yesterday, it's likely they have a function. We covered a lot of ground yesterday and I saw some fantastic things that will be material for the next few blog entries, but these images have made an impression. Is there a certain beauty in them? I think so. As most photographers know, it is best to accept what you are given on any day of shooting. The story will reveal itself. It always does.

Summer Exposure!

2007-06-18T19:22:00.000-07:00

I have some exciting news! A portfolio of five of my images and an article about my approach to photography has been published in the summer issue of a new magazine, Okanagan Arts. One of my goals for the year was to be published before the Okanagan Photographic Arts Workshops in August, and it was very good fortune that my website crossed the right person's path at just the right time. I am very grateful for the opportunity given to me by Robert Macdonald, editor of Okanagan Arts.

Seeing a magazine like this hit the stands is very encouraging. The Okanagan Valley is full of artists, striving to find a voice and an appreciative audience. A gorgeous publication like this one bodes well for the future. Speaking of the future, I'm going to be bold enough to mention that I am looking for gallery representation, and opportunities to show my work locally throughout the summer. My contact information is on my main site, http://www.lauratucker.com/. It can't hurt to put it out there, can it?

This is the cover of the magazine as seen on the website www.okanaganarts.com:

Well, thanks for checking in! If you want to see an online version of the article, it can be found at the link on the right hand side of the blog. I'm told that the pictures will be added very soon.

High Noon Above Skaha

2007-06-10T09:32:00.001-07:00

The first thing I'm going to do today is apologize to my most regular visitors - it's been 10 days since my last post! There's lots going on in my world of photography, so I'll make an effort to catch up with an extra entry or two this coming week. First, I want to share some images from a few weeks ago. My "cousin" Jeanette was in Penticton on a camping & climbing trip, so I made the drive down to spend a day hiking with her. I put quotes around the word cousin, because if you know my maternal family at all, the word cousin stretches far and wide. In this case, our mothers are first cousins, so we're not sure what exactly that makes us - second or third or something! Most importantly, Jeanette moved to Calgary about a year before I ventured West, making us our only blood relative west of the Ontario border. Now we're practically neighbours, because when you live out here and it's less than a day's drive, you're likely to see each other more often than in our home-town. Funny how that works!

I met Jeanette late morning and we headed out to the hills. Her friends are avid climbers and we decided to check out the hiking trail that went through their climbing area. It was our first time out together, so we were looking for something that would take a few hours, but wouldn't be too difficult. Off we went with the crappiest map in the world in hand. We were fine at first, but of course we lost the easy trail after a while. Instead of an easy loop trail, we ended up on top of a mountain overlooking Penticton to the north and beautiful Lake Skaha to the south.

Neither one of us was too keen on going back the way we came up - scrambling up a rocky gorge and using a rope to pull ourselves up the final incline to the top was a little more than we had gambled on. Fortunately we heard voices and Jeanette got guidance from some climbers while I got shutter happy.

Losing the easy trail turned out to be good fortune - the view was magnificent. It was high noon, so I put a polarizer on the lens and hoped for the best. I'd love to go back again when there's "magic light". Needless to say, we made it back down without incident, although sometimes it's hard not to curse the weight of the camera equipment.

A day like that wouldn't be complete without a couple of people pics - we sat and watched this lead climber as he brought his group's rope up the rock face. It was an impressive thing to watch as he alternately ascended and tried to find his route. And finally, here's one of Jeanette. Next time I'll remember to have someone take one of us together.

Still Moment at Vaseux Lake

2007-05-31T11:57:00.001-07:00

The drive from Kelowna south to Osoyoos is filled with many of my favourite places to photograph. When first travelled to the Okanagan Valley in 2004, I was stunned by the fact that the landscape resembled the south-western US, but was north of the 49th parallel. Vasseux Lake is located along Highway 97, just north of Oliver. It is surrounded by impressive canyon-like cliffs.

When I took this photograph, I was chatting on the phone with my sister-in-law Ilean. We were catching up on family stuff, and suddenly the breeze fell still, creating this wonderful reflection on the lake. Knowing that the air would move again at any moment, I quickly ended the call, promising to send the best photo from the spot I was while talking to her. Well, here it is at last!

Reflecting on Louise

2007-05-23T00:30:00.000-07:00

I hesitate each time I include personal content on this blog. Its original intent was to keep me motivated to photograph for pleasure on a more regular basis, something that it has definitely helped me with. However, a lot of the traffic on the site is also family and friends, checking in to see what I'm up to. So, today, I am going to use this entry to write about someone I want you to remember - my friend, Louise Gonsalves.

Given that this is a photography blog, I'm going to use the context of one of my favourite images to tell the story.

Louise lost her battle against cancer two years ago today. I remember when I received the call, I was beside myself for missing her last day. I had returned to Toronto from Cambridge to start packing for my relocation to Kelowna. There was so much going on at the time, it was difficult to know what to do, where to be, what was going to happen next. When I hung up the phone, I paced around my apartment in circles, waiting for the train wreck to happen. When it didn't, I sat down at the same laptop I'm writing on now, and wrote Louise a letter. I felt like I was communicating with her directly. When I re-read the letter tonight, I am surprised at how closely I described my feelings, for I now know that I was in shock at the time.

When Louise died, I not only lost a "best friend", I lost the biggest fan of my photography. Six months earlier, I had photographed her wedding and family portraits, a bitter-sweet experience, as that was when we all realized her illness had advanced much further than she had been letting on. Over the course of her funeral, I was reminded by her relatives how much we used to push each other as children - in school and in sports. Looking back I realize that as adults, our support of each other in our respective businesses and creative pursuits was the mature version of our school-yard, sidewalk and bus-stop antics. I know she would have been a regular reader of this blog and been after me when I fall behind my weekly commitment.

I have missed Louise incredibly over the course of the past two years. It has been very difficult to not be able to pick up the phone whenever I please. The moments when I feel somehow connected to her have been few and far between, but they have been important and I hope there will be more of them.

The moment I squeezed the shutter on the image I chose to go with this entry was one of those too rare occasions. I was en route to Kelowna, with my dog and cameras packed in my car. It was my last night on the road and probably the first time I stopped to take a breath in the whirlwind following Louise's death, and selling or packing everything I owned. The irony that I was at Lake Louise was not lost on me then, nor is it now.

Exhausted after four days of driving, I had left Brandy in the hotel room and went for a walk to the village. The sun was obscured by heavy cloud, but I stopped and sat on a bridge railing at the side of the road, facing west. The moment I let my mind go quiet and thought of Louise, the sun burst out from behind the clouds, sending rays of light in all directions. I don't remember whether I had my camera with me or not - that moment was just for me, and it made me feel like everything was going to be all right. I went to bed early, ready for my last day on the road to my new home.

The next morning, my alarm went off before 5 am. I had set it the night before, intending to head up to the lake and see what I could do with my camera before hitting the road for the last day long drive. I was bone tired, and pushed the snooze button at least once before I heard this familiar voice in my head say "Well, you're not much of a photographer if you stay in bed - for God's sake, you've got one morning and you're at Lake Louise!"

That was all the encouragement I needed. I was out of bed like a shot!

I miss you Lou; we all do.

(I have posted my original letter from May 23, 2005, read at Louise's funeral, and a few pictures here: Friends for Life )

A Very Close Encounter

2007-05-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

I'm going to start this entry by explaining that my exposure to and experience with wildlife has been minimal - until now, that is. In fact, I was starting to believe that I must have some inherent wildlife repellent, because I haven't seen anything bigger than a mole since moving to British Columbia almost two years ago. (Well, there were those rather docile mountain goats...) All of that changed last Sunday. I took the day to drive Highway 3 all the way through Osoyoos to Vancouver in my new vehicle.

As I rounded a corner on the highway, I saw several cars pulled over to the side - an automatic signal that something is worth seeing in this neck of the woods. I followed suit, and was shocked to see this massive brown bear with a magnificent coat foraging in a clearing adjacent to the road. As it happened, I had the right lens on my camera, laying on the passenger seat. Not knowing how long the opportunity would last, I grabbed it, popped open the sunroof and climbed on up. There was NO WAY I was going to leave the car. The bear was 30 meters away at most. Well Mr Bear was pretty darn comfortable because he wasn't going anywhere. He (or she) put on quite a show, eating buckets full of grass right before our eyes. If these pictures are a little soft, it's because I was shaking like a leaf from both fear and excitement.

In front of me was a family driving a large truck. The father (Chris) was standing on the top of the storage box he had on the flat bed, a full metre or two higher than I could get, even if I stood on the armrest of my new "sissy truck". The bear was on slightly higher ground, and he had the better vantage point, by far. The bear didn't seem to be threatened, so when Chris and his wife (Chrissy) said, "You can climb up here if you want", I left the protective shell of my vehicle and climbed on up. (Chris and Chrissy, If you are reading, thanks so much - all of these images were taken from your truck.)

Ten, fifteen minutes went by, and we were happily chatting about how amazing this was, when the bear became suddenly attentive to something. We turned to look, and a man was APPROACHING THE BEAR!!$%$**!! Grizzly Adams himself had climbed down the ditch at the side of the road, and up the embankment, waving his cell phone camera out in front of him like a protective shield. Proving once again, that many people are dumber than animals, he had spooked the bear. I had never seen a bear run before, and I hope to never again. At least it went in the direction AWAY FROM THE PEOPLE. Perhaps what Mr Adams didn't realize was that the money shot was not going to be his low resolution phone picture of the bear, but my close-up of him being mauled. Honestly!!!

The bear didn't go very far, but he had moved out of good camera range. I stayed around just in case it came back, but had to be satisfied with what I had got. I climbed back into the driver's seat and went along my way. A couple of kilometers later, I saw one of the same vehicles pulled over to the side again, with this darker, smaller bear standing straight up, not even 20 feet from their car. Up through the sunroof I went, camera in hand again. It was all rather surreal. This bear was a lot closer, and a lot more active, so I took my pictures and left fairly quickly.

On Monday morning I sent the pictures to friends in Kelowna to help identify whether or not the first bear was a young grizzly. Here's the feedback I got from Jason who has seen his fair share of bears:

"Saw the pictures of the black bears you took. Very nice pictures and those are very nice (and big) bears. The brown phase black bear sure has a beautiful coat. They are just starting to rub that winter coat off so it’s fortunate to get pictures of them in their full coat.

Some of the tell tale signs that they are black bears (as opposed to grizzlies) is the pointed face, narrow fairly pointed ears, no shoulder hump and white chest blaze. Not all black bears have the white chest blaze but no grizzly bears do. They can be just as dangerous as grizzlies though so stay close to your car!!"

My education continues.....

Tomson Lake

2007-05-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

Last week I went on a drive north of Kelowna to scout for images later in the season. On the way back, I stopped in an area along Highway 97, just south of Vernon that I had wanted to photograph for quite some time. The light was all wrong and I was on a timeline, so I had to pass through with without what I was seeking.

On impulse, I turned off the highway at Predator Ridge, an incredible golf course I'll play without embarassing myself one day. Not too far along the road was this surprise find - Tomson Lake. It's a small lake, but the one "Group of Seven" tree, reaching for the sun was enough to put my foot on the brake and turn the car around.

Spring in the Valley

2007-04-29T21:49:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to the BC interior! These images were made last year, in the middle of April on a stretch of Highway 3 between Keremeos and Hedley. It was one of those days that turned out differently than originally intended. I had my good friend (and photographer) Beth visiting from Massachusetts, and we had anticipated days of photographing orchards with blooms at their peak - or so we thought! We were a couple of weeks early, as it turned out. I remember being concerned because the weather was not cooperating at all. It was cold and windy, with intermittent cold and wind on this day we had set aside for the Similkameen Valley. Aside from an image I ended up using on my website, I wasn't thrilled with the outcome of the day's shooting.
A year later, I have been asked to put together a portfolio of local images. As I go hunting through my files for that one image, I find myself looking at everything from that day with fresh eyes. I have a new appreciation for these three images now - they're different from a lot of the images typical of this region - it's marketed for the long summer and desert climate. I am once again reminded of two important rules of photography. The first is that the conditions for outdoor photography are not something within the control of the photographer. It is more important to work with what you are given than to force a square peg into a round hole. The second rule is don't be too quick to discard any technically strong images just because you didn't get exactly what you wanted in that moment.
This is not the first time I have been reminded of this lesson. In order to get to the "good stuff", I have been known to send a keeper or two to the trash can, only to have them rescued by someone with a more forgiving eye. The best example I can give is the first image called "Daybreak" in the Places gallery at www.lauratucker.com. It was taken in New Brunswick at the first workshop I took with Freeman Patterson and Andre Gallant. It was the first batch of slides we got back from the lab. The images had not turned out exactly as I had intended. As I sorted through the slides, I muttered "crap, crap, crap" as I callously tossed them into a garbage bin. One of the other participants saw what I was doing and asked "Can I take a look at those?" very cautiously. She pulled a few slides out of the pile and suggested that I take a look at them in a few days. Well, Beth rescued Daybreak and taught me an important lesson.

From Victoria to Nanaimo

2007-04-26T22:20:00.000-07:00

Here are a few images from the drive from Victoria to Nanaimo, taken in early April this year. It was a beautiful day, with just enough cloud in the sky to make the landscape interesting.

This is a quintessential British Columbia photograph - the ferries are an essential mode of transportation between many points.

By the time we got to Nanaimo, the clouds had started to move in, making for more dramatic light. The harbour there is lovely, with a long boardwalk and docks to stroll on.

I was struck by the size of this boat, The Endeavour. The row boat tied next to it really gives a sense of scale. I used a wide angle lens to get right up close, yet include as much of the Endeavour as I could in the frame.

Harbour Reflections

2007-04-16T10:24:00.000-07:00

I am standing on the dock at Fisherman's Wharf in Victoria. It's a beautiful spring day; warm when the sun shines, brisk when the breeze moves. People are walking around, looking at the curious houseboat community. The committee for renewing the wharf has a display of their future plans that seem to generate a positive response. I take out my camera, anxious to explore this place. After a few warm-up shots of my surroundings, I start to see the beauty of the details.

The reflections create an abstract, painterly image. When there is no reflection, as in the image below, it is clear that there is much more going on beneath the surface of the water - more than I had anticipated...

Meet Sammy the Seal! He hangs out at Fisherman's Wharf, waiting for people to feed him fish they can buy right on the dock. Sammy is a pretty well-fed seal. He had a younger companion who had to work a lot harder for food. Needless to say, the young seal was a lot slimmer.

Butchart Gardens

2007-04-10T20:36:00.000-07:00

One of the highlights of my trip to Victoria was visiting Butchart Gardens. My mother had been there a couple of years ago and described its splendour. I remember she raved about it, but I was blown away by the beauty, especially by "The Sunken Garden", pictured here. It was formerly a rock quarry that was transformed into a lush garden by the quarry owner's wife, once the quarry was no longer being mined.

This fountain is just beyond The Sunken Garden, and the dancing waters are quite spectacular.

No trip to a new area would be complete without capturing the unique character to be found in the trees....

Distinct

Chaotic

Ancient

This is definitely a place to see in all seasons. I will definitely return in the future. Enjoy!

Discovering Victoria

2007-04-03T17:09:00.000-07:00

I just returned from my first trip to Vancouver Island. I visited Maureen, a friend from Toronto who moved there in January - yes, the invasion continues! The weather was cool, but very cooperative. The trip has supplied me with some fresh material for several blog entries to come! These images were made in and around the Victoria harbour. I had not expected such variety in a relatively small area. These images are of the Empress Hotel, which overlooks the harbour.

We made our approach in the smallest ferry boat I've ever seen!

The cherry blossoms were in their splendour throughout my visit...

And we saw one of the residents of the harbour contemplating life.

This is a sampling for now, I'll be back with more later.....

Late Winter Reflections

2007-03-19T19:37:00.000-07:00

Introducing Hailey!

2007-03-12T22:15:00.000-07:00

Introducing Hailey! She is on her way to Vancouver with her mother this week to see if a career in child modeling or acting lies in her near future. Good luck Hailey - the camera sure does love you!

Photography Workshop Announcement

2007-03-05T20:07:00.000-08:00

"My purpose is to use my creativity and passion to motivate and inspire others to reach their full potential in pursuit of their goals and dreams."

My personal mission statement (in development)
March 1, 2007

If you are a regular reader of this blog, you may recall that I mentioned some big news a few entries ago. Well, I am following up on that entry today. I have been invited to co-facilitate a workshop for photographers at the Okanagan Photographic Arts Workshop, August 10-12, 2007. If you know me as a teacher, a consultant, a photographer and a dreamer, you will appreciate how important an opportunity this is. I will be working with Judy Burns, a photographer and multi-media artist, who invited me to join her in this project. We have an exciting agenda planned for our workshop entitled "Capture and Communicate Your Creative Vision." (The workshop website has just been updated - you can find a course description and instructor biographies at www.opaw.org or click the link just to the right of this entry.)

I have chosen this image to accompany my good news for a special reason. It was taken at one of my favourite places and times, during a workshop led by Freeman Patterson and Andre Gallant in New Brunswick (2005). When I look at it, I am transported through time and space to a creative and generous learning environment where I have grown tremendously, both as a photographer and as a person. I am looking forward to combining my teaching skills with my own photography in my pursuit of my goals and dreams.

Over the past several months, I have received emails from two of my former high school students in Toronto. Their words of gratitude have in turn inspired and motivated me. It is remarkable how things come around full circle. It is hard to believe that the tenth anniversary of my departure from teaching is coming up in May. In truth, I have never stopped teaching; only the environment and the students have changed. I'm looking forward to this next progression. It will be wonderful to apply my passion to my passion.

Craving the Sun!!!

2007-02-25T09:41:00.000-08:00

Beautiful British Columbia! I can't wait for the longer days and more time outdoors. You might recognize this spot if you have driven the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler. A short jog across the highway, up on to the train tracks provides this vantage point. The sun is low enough in the sky to be flattering and I like how the white of the boat is repeated in the white of the mountain-top glacier.

(If any of my "Loyal Visitors" knows the name of the boat, could you please leave a comment for me by clicking on "0 comments" below and following the steps. Either that or an email at info@lauratucker.com would be great.)

The past week has been fairly uneventful. I toted my camera with me to the Lower Mainland only to be rained out. I hear it was a beautiful week here in Kelowna - grrrrr. Kudos to Westjet - it only took an hour to fly home on Friday and when I opened my mail, there was a full refund of my unexpected night tour of Western Canada waiting for me - unsolicited. I've never had that experience with their competitor, so big points to Westjet this time around.

If you missed it and you want a good laugh, the whole saga is painstakingly detailed in my blog entry two weeks ago.

Winter's Gentle Retreat

2007-02-18T12:05:00.000-08:00

These pictures were taken today from the beach in Peachland, located just south of Kelowna. Winter doesn't hit the Okanagan Valley all at once; nor does it leave abruptly. When it arrives, winter is heralded by the descent of snow down the mountains. You can see it coming before the snow hits the ground in Kelowna. This year, we had a fair bit of snow and ice. My first two winters living here have been a bit of a challenge - there is little sun between the months of November and March. As you can see, the snow is now receding up the mountains again. This brings joy and energy, for at lake level, Kelowna is a place for sunshine and beaches. I have yet to embrace skiing and hit the hills at Big White, which means I haven't spent much time above the clouds again this year. That I am reserving for next year, when I can invest the time and enjoy it fully. The last couple of days have been a sunny exception and already I can feel a difference in my bones and a lift in my spirit. It's really all about energy, isn't it?

The Long Trip Home aka The Joys of "Flying"

2007-02-11T14:43:00.000-08:00

Home, at last! In my wildest dreams I could not have imagined that it would take two days to fly home to Kelowna from Vancouver.

Flight #1 - Air Canada:

The "adventure" began at 5:30 pm on Friday night, when I checked in for my 6:20 Air Canada flight home from from Vancouver. All was proceeding according to plan. For a refreshing change, there was no heart-thumping last minute rush to the airport. There was no line to speak of at check in, and only a small delay at security. I had a bite to eat and arrived at the gate with time to spare. Surely, this was a relaxing start to a much anticipated weekend. I was in control.......

Ha!

What was that they said over the "loud" speaker? Something about fog in Kelowna? Little did I know as I boarded the plane and embarked on the 29 minute flight home, the journey was just beginning. Twenty nine minutes later plus one veeerrrryyyyy long descent, with lights on the ground visible from the plane, we had to turn around and head back to Vancouver. The fog was too thick for our Airbus to land. The cliche "so close, but so far away" began to take on new meaning.

Upon our return to Vancouver, the Canadian version of "chaos" broke out. (Having experience with similar situations in Chicago - I assure you this was quite different.) We all stood in a line while the frazzled Air Canada reps rebooked us for the next morning, calling anyone we could to figure out if there was a better alternative. Bits and pieces of information came in from friends and relatives "on the other side". Yes, it was extremely foggy....can't land those planes manually....they had marked our flight "Arrived"....the Westjet flight made it in....Westjet lands more planes in Kelowna than Air Canada...flights had been turned back for the past couple of days...

That was enough for me! I was done with Air Canada. Not taking any more chances with my valuable weekend, I called my good friends Lucinda and Kent from the line - several times. I was going to be clever. I was going to take control of this situation and make sure I had at least part of my Saturday at home. Kent booked me on a 2:30 pm flight on Westjet the next day. I turned down Air Canada's offer of an 11:00 am flight and had my ticket refunded. Three hours was worth the increased odds of landing if it was foggy the next day.

I rented a car, crashed at my friend Theresa's terrific new townhouse and enjoyed a Saturday morning trip to Ikea with Theresa and her son Quinn. What a great way to spend the extra time, I thought, and it was.

Flights #2 and #3 - Westjet:

I was on a streak! I am really getting to know how to navigate the Lower Mainland. I arrived at the airport with time to spare and was noticeably perspiration-free for the second day in a row. There is really something to this, I thought, free of my usual pre-flight jitters. Checked in at Westjet, my now-preferred airline partner despite all those Aeroplan miles. Had a beer with lunch - it's the weekend after all - and went to the gate.

"There certainly are a lot of people here for a Saturday", I remember thinking to myself. Oh, look...that flight to Toronto has been delayed for 3 hours. I'm glad it's not me this time. I settled in with my brand new book "Tuesdays with Morrie" thinking how great it was to have time to read. Just as I opened the book, I noticed a little message had appeared on the screen at the Kelowna gate - our flight was delayed until 3:30. There was a general grumbling and malaise through the lounge, but we had no choice, and after all it was only an hour...

When is it time to get nervous at an airport terminal? When your delayed flight time approaches and you have still not boarded your plane. When is it time to start twitching and squirming in your slippery reclining seat? When your flight time passes and they are not telling you ANYTHING.

Then, it comes....the long awaited announcement. "Ladies and gentlemen on Westjet 123 to Kelowna. There will be a further delay to your flight. We have had to make a change and switch planes. The plane you were going to take to Kelowna is now going to be heading to Toronto. The former Toronto plane is here, but it has a problem and needs some maintenance before we can have it ready for you. We will let you know, just as soon as we can, your new departure time. Thank you for your patience...blah blah blah."

Patience is not the word I would have chosen to describe the reaction that ensued. You see, I was not the only one who had been trying to get home for 24 hours at this point. I was to find out later that I wasn't the only smartie-pants who jumped the Air Canada ship either, but it didn't help me then. And, here's the straw that broke the camel's back - I had just spent the last Tuesday with Morrie who had succumbed to his fight with ALS at the end of the book. All this free time for reading was really not helping me. Because, yes, that was me, bawling my eyes out in the Vancouver airport terminal! Just like Dorothy, all I wanted to do was go home. (Thank goodness I can laugh at myself today....)

Enough about me, back to the flight and the other people on it. Tension was pretty high and information was pretty low until they made their next, most absurd, announcement. No one could make this up: "Ladies and gentlemen on Westjet 123 to Kelowna. We apologize for the delay and thank you for your patience. We realize that many of you have been trying to get to Kelowna for the past couple of days. We have a further delay with your flight. Your plane was originally headed for Toronto and was filled with enough fuel to get it there. Unfortunately, we have tried, but we can't take enough fuel off the plane to make it land safely in Kelowna. The runway is too short. We are going to send this plane to Calgary.... Please, ladies and gentlemen, if you will just stay calm and listen to me..... Your best chance of arriving in Kelowna tonight is to take the flight to Calgary... We are trying to locate a plane and crew for an emergency flight to Kelowna and should have you there by 9:00 pm. For anyone who does not want to go to Calgary, we will pull your luggage from the plane......

This is getting long, but just use your imagination here. Calgary is a lot further from Kelowna than Vancouver, at least by ground. The funniest thing was that the Westjet "partner" with the microphone could not get her head around why people were upset and made it quite clear in her further attempts to "thank us for our patience".

I had already bottomed out, so I was back in cope mode, reaching for the phone to see what driving might be like. Fortunately, I can learn from experience, and decided not to do anything too clever like jump ship again. That was when the turning point came - I bumped into a friend and her husband who were on the same flight - and most people seemed to be putting their trust in Calgary. I decided to be a sheep instead of a ram (yes, I am an Aries). And now I had company.

The majority of the travellers trusted in the gods and took the plane to Calgary. We expanded our group to four and went for dinner and drinks. When we returned to the Calgary gate after dinner to find our flight delayed for another hour, we expanded our group to six and plunked ourselves down in the adjacent lounge. "To Kelowna before midnight!" was our collective wish as we clinked our glasses. When one person didn't show up for the flight and they had to keep us on the tarmac while they fished out his or her luggage, it didn't matter anymore. We were on a plane, and we it was going to Kelowna!! (It's funny how expectations change.....)

The third plane with our self-described "saviour crew" landed in Kelowna at roughly 11:00 pm. After a half-hour wait for our luggage and a short drive home, I walked in the door at 11:30 pm, quickly unpacked, and went to bed. "Kelowna before midnight" was the last thought to cross my mind as my head hit the pillow.

It's really foggy here in Kelowna today. I wonder what happened to all those people who didn't go to Calgary.....

As for which airline I'll be using next time? It's anyone's guess.

End of January Already?

2007-01-31T22:15:00.000-08:00

My, my, my, what a start to a new year. It is unbelievable the rate at which time flies. So far, 2007 has brought both intense joy and pain, hard work and a dream come true. If this is any indication of what the year is going to be like, I'm going to have to hang on to my hat. (Or should I say "heart"?) This blog entry is a bit of a cheat. I'm doing my best to avoid being hounded first thing in the morning by my most loyal blog fan, Tom, who gives me s**t if he doesn't see a weekly entry. I guess everyone needs a conscience, including me. I'm reaching back to my trip to Whistler in September for this image from Joffre Lakes. I had it all ready to go with my October 1st entry, but somehow it was so different from the other images that it didn't fit. This was taken late in the day, just before the sun dipped behind the mountains. The shadow had already cast itself across the crystalline water and the glowing teal lake turned dark and filled with reflection. As the shadows crept in from all sides, this one ghost of a tree grasped at the last light of the day. The next moment, it was plunged into darkness until the dawn of the new day. I suppose it is no coincidence that I choose this image tonight, as I reflect on the past few months and at the same time force myself to look to the future. I have some wonderful photography news that I am going to save for my next entry - it must be paired with brighter images and a brighter mood. And, I want to keep Tom in suspense! On that note, I am going to say "good night" with the last image on the way to the parking lot at Joffre Lakes.....

.... see you next week.

The Glory of a Tree

2007-01-24T21:27:00.000-08:00

Trees are one of my favourites subjects to photograph. They don't blink, twitch or talk just as the shutter is tripped! Even when jostled by the wind, a little creativity can go a long way with a tree. Joking aside, I love to photograph trees because each one is distinct. As every picture tells a story, I think that each tree has a story too. This tree grows in Winfield, a lovely community just north of Kelowna. Surrounded by orchards, mountains and open spaces, it cut an impressive figure as we walked down the road. The first time I saw this tree, on Boxing Day, I stopped and made several images. The very next day, we had just enough snow to coat the trunk and thicker branches. As I drove up to the tree, just before dusk, I couldn't help but smile. Nature had taken care of highlighting the intricate branches of this willow as it slept.

Winter Wonderland

2007-01-08T17:05:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! Today is my first day back from Christmas vacation and what a wonderful break it was. I had a chance to get out of town over New Years and the south Okanagan was beautiful. It is rare for Osoyoos, Canada's desert to have snow, but this is what we saw as we ascended on Highway 3, headed to the Kootenays. It is difficult not to think of climate change when a desert region has snow and my Toronto friends and family have yet to wear boots or clear off the car (or so they tell me). Nonetheless, the light dusting of snow over Osoyoos is a beautiful sight.

What I like the most about these images is the way the snow provides a delicate outline to the roads, the vineyards and the mountains. In the summer, the colour palate is full of yellow and green - in striking contrast to the muted details here. I will definitely be returning to photograph this vista throughout the year.

Introducing Riley Joseph Tucker

2006-12-27T14:19:00.000-08:00

I'd like you to meet my nephew, Riley Joseph Tucker. He was born on October 31, 2006 :) If you are wondering why it took his Aunt Laura soooo looooonnnnnggggg to post this picture, I did not want his father (Steve, pictured here...well, partially...) to see the picture before he and his wife, Ilean, received it as a gift for Christmas. I met Riley last month in Toronto; he is a beauty. If you have seen pictures of his parents on my main website, nothing about his good looks and charm will surprise you. On Christmas Day, I learned that I will be an Aunt for a second time next July, courtesy of Paul and Kathleen. I am very excited about all the fun we will have together as they grow up. It was a Merry Christmas and will be an exciting New Year for the (Expanding) Tucker Family in 2007!

Lucky Flight Home

2006-12-17T22:20:00.000-08:00

Once in a while, you get really lucky. I was on the way back from a trip back "East" and the plane happened to be crossing the Pacific mountains at just the right time to take these soft-lit images. I happened to have my f2.8 lens in my carry-on luggage which allowed me to take advantage of the low light conditions. Luckily, all the images were sharp, given the movement of the plane.

Once I saw the right conditions, I had to haul my equipment out of the overhead bin and asked the woman in the row behind me if I could use her unobstructed view from her window; I had an aisle seat over the wing. Thankfully, she let me use her seat which allowed me to get these shots. When I was done, she asked me where I was from and seemed surprised to hear that I am a "local".

I hope I never take the mountains for granted. I choose to be inspired by them than not to see them at all.

Madison & Sadie

2006-11-18T11:13:00.000-08:00

These pictures of Madison and Sadie were taken in the hills above Summerland on a beautiful day in late October. These sisters are among the most cooperative subjects I have ever photographed!

These two sisters truly enjoy each others' company.

I like this one a lot - it's like Madison is looking out for Sadie.

A pensive moment from an energetic little girl :)

We interrupt this raking.....

2006-11-05T11:40:00.000-08:00

What a difference a week makes! A couple of days of rain and wind and everything changes......

Eighteen bags and counting with more to fall this week!

Is it time to rake yet?

2006-10-28T08:51:00.000-07:00

For most of my life, autumn has been my favourite time of year. As a former native of Toronto, the onset of cooler weather meant watching the landscape change as if a giant paintbrush had descended from the sky and celebrating as the summer's humidity lifted and the crisp, cool air re-energized the city.

Here in the Okanagan Valley, the change is less dramatic, but I think it's the prettiest time of year. Although the colours are muted, the change in the light from the harsh, high sun of the summer to the low hanging light in the south shows off the landscape beautifully.

The image of the tree above was taken from my backyard. This year, the leaves seem to want to stay up in the trees longer than I remember last year. Mind you, I spent a good part of last October in New Brunswick. I really don't remember the timing of last year's annual descent. I'm planning to take advantage and get out there over the weekend to add to my collection of images.

Since moving here, I have developed a fascination with olive trees, pictured below. I first noticed them last year and they were unfamiliar to me. I love the way they turn silver in the fall and was pleased with how the elegance of this pair of trees is translated by the camera.

Ironically, I went to visit my family in Ottawa last May, and what did I notice growing on the side of the highway but dozens of olive trees....or something that looked like them!

Last, but not least, here's a peek at an orchard in Summerland, putting on its display of autumn finery. I don't think the colours at the orchards and vineyards have hit their peak further to the south, so I think that's the direction I'll be taking this weekend. Wish me good shooting :)

Dear Paul

2006-10-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Paul,

I would find it impossible to do a regular blog entry today without referring to you, so I thought I would write you a letter before even trying.

I miss you very much. I was talking to your Aunt Rosie (aka my mom) last week and I said something to her that I haven't been able to shake ever since. I don't remember what life felt like before your accident. I hadn't thought of it in quite that way before; it just came out in our conversation. It is a truth that has stayed with me since.

I put your picture on my blog for a few of reasons. First, I can now go and look at it any time I need to from anywhere, which is pretty cool. Second, this picture has come to symbolize for hundreds of people, the importance of considering organ donation. I added a link to your website to my blog last night. I hope that people who read this are curious enough to go and take a look. This is one of the most positive things that has come out of our loss. I am so proud of your family for their commitment and determination.

Most importantly for me, it is the picture that cemented for me forever the value of a picture of a loved one. The last time I saw you at Joan and Fred's, you had just returned from Ireland. We went through your pictures, trading stories about our favourite place on Earth. Now, that is a great memory for me to have!

I won't go on any longer, or I will risk turning this entry into a puddle of tears. I will be thinking of you.

Love always,

Your "coolest" cousin,

Laura

PS. Go Leafs Go!

PPS. A couple hours after writing I thought of another picture that helps me remember before. As you know, we still get like this sometimes, most recently at your race weekend in Ottawa last May. :) LOL

Second Chance at Brandywine Falls

2006-10-15T20:42:00.000-07:00

In early October 2002, I travelled to Whistler on business from Toronto. At the end of the meeting I stayed around for a few extra days to explore the area. That summer I had purchased my first SLR camera and tripod. I had done a little reading and had caught the photography bug. I was very eager to make use of my new toys, so I arranged to stay on for a few days at a local bed and breakfast.

I attempted the Joffre Lakes hike, visited an ancient cedar grove, searched out waterfalls and burned film like a mad-woman. When I returned home and picked up my slides I was in for a lesson. To say that my photographs from that trip were under-whelming would be an under-statement. What I lacked in skill I made up for in enthusiasm, so there were plenty of mistakes to look at! I was disappointed, but not discouraged. Within a few months I had quit my corporate job, started my own business and enrolled in a photography program at Sheridan College. I had a lot to learn.

One of the locations I photographed on that 2002 trip was Brandywine Falls, located just south of Whistler on Highway 99. In my first attempt, I exposed the shot properly, but there was a boulder in the foreground that I just could not eliminate because my lens was too short. To make matters worse, the boulder was catching the sun, so it was the most noticeable thing in the picture, overwhelming the spectacular waterfall. I still have that slide - it's in a "what if" file.

So, I was quite pleased when I pulled off the highway on my recent trip, this time from Kelowna, to re-discover Brandywine Falls. Even as I walked the short trail from the parking lot to the observation deck, I was unsure which waterfall I was revisiting. Four years, many courses, a few pieces of equipment and thousands of images later, I wish I had a picture of the look on my face when I got close to the falls and that familliar cavern opened up in front of me. This time, I was able to straddle my (taller) tripod out over the ledge, aim my (longer) lens around the boulder and get the shot.

This past trip up the Sea to Sky Highway was a unique opportunity to reflect on all the changes of the past four years. Little did I know when I descended from Whistler in 2002 the challenges and opportunities that were ahead. Writing this entry is making me think about all of the things I have learned, the people I have met, and the three I have lost in the intervening years. There is so much about life that you cannot control, but once in a while you are given a second chance.

Laura

Happy Thanksgiving

2006-10-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I went for a drive on Highway 97 South out of Kelowna this afternoon, looking for some photo ops for my new blog. I couldn't break my commitment of a weekly entry on the second week!

I got lucky, with the re-appearance of mountain goats on the hills south of Peachland. Just about a year ago, I was treated to the sight of three mountain goats in perfect formation, staring down the barrel of my lens. I'm not one to spend hours waiting for wildlife, but who can resist when they make like Ford models right at the side of the road? That picture is on my website www.lauratucker.com in the Things gallery if you are curious.

Just as I was going to get in the car and drive further south to catch the last of the sun, I spotted a natural bouquet growing out of the hill at highway level. Martha Stewart, eat your heart out:)

South of Summerland, the day's last light played merrily at the base of a gultch.

Although I felt the distance between me, my family and old friends this weekend, there are certainly no end of things to be grateful for on this Thanksgiving Day.

Joffre Lakes

2006-10-01T20:06:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my friend Debbie flew in from Toronto for a trade show in Whistler. I met her there on Thursday evening for a great weekend spent "looking for a place to happen, making stops along the way", to quote the Tragically Hip in one of those fun moments where a song matches what you were doing, perfectly. Our major stop was a hike at Joffre Lakes, north of Pemberton, which is north of Whistler on Highway 99. It was a beautiful fall day, not a cloud in the sky.

Joffre Lakes are actually three lakes that are fed by the Matier Glacier. The Lower Lake is steps from the parking lot and immediately rewarding. The Middle Lake (pictured here) and the Upper Lake are found along a rooty trail that includes crossing a boulder field. It was, without a doubt, the toughest hike I've ever been on. I learned a valuable lesson that day - one camera body and one wide angle lens would have been enough. My pack was a little heavy for my liking, especially on the way down! Debbie was a very patient friend as I travelled at a snail's pace, more concerned with safety than speed...and cursing my packing skills along the way. To be honest, I was longing for high heels, a leather jacket and a glass of really good wine - when faced with a challenge like this, I guess some of my true colours were bound to emerge.

Well, speaking of true colours, all thoughts of civilisation disappeared as we approached the Middle Lake. Because of the rough terrain, I had to look down at the ground to see where to place my feet. As we ascended through the forest the teal glow of the Middle Lake suddenly shone between the trees up ahead. It was a spectacular sight that brought shouts of joy to everyone I heard approach the lake that day. It was worth the effort to be there.

I can't tell you how close it was to ending there, at the Middle Lake. If it weren't for the encouragement of another hiker who said the Upper Lake was even more impressive than the previous two, I think we would have turned back. Another 45 minutes of uphill trekking and there we were, at the base of the Matier Glacier. It was a very warm day as it is, but the reflection of the sun off the water and surrounding bowl of mountain peaks made it all the warmer. We had heard the occasional boom on the way up, which I wrote off to construction in my mind. The next time it happened, Debbie spotted a piece of the glacier that had broken away and was tumbling down the peak. Now, that was something I never thought I would see. It was all too quick to get the camera out, but it is clear in my mind's eye and I'll be better prepared the next time :)

I had wanted to put up a couple more shots here, but can't seem to attach any more pictures to this post. I'll see if I can check back later to add more.

Laura

Welcome to my blog!

2006-10-01T19:57:00.000-07:00

To all of my family, friends, and interested others,

Welcome to my new online journal. I am starting this blog on the eve of launching my photography website, www.lauratucker.com. A blog seems a perfect companion to the website for several reasons.

First, it will replace my sporadic emails "back east" to family and friends. I know I have missed several of you along the way. I encourage you to check back often. I am committing to one blog entry each week, complete with pictures. Your feedback and comments are a welcome reminder that moving across the country has not cut me off from you completely. No time zone excuses are permitted here, the internet runs 24 hours a day.

Second, along with my photography, there is a writer in me that has long been dormant. If I make this public commitment to "publish" weekly, I will keep it. That's just the way I am.

And last, but not least, it's really cool to see my stuff "out there". I am excited to share and hopeful it will lead to great things as I pursue my dreams on this Journey.

Thanks for checking in,

Laura