Happy New Year – 2009 Edition
jewel December 31st, 2008
So, here we are, another new year is upon us. Thinking back on 2008, I feel fortunate. I got to do a little bit of traveling, I met some wonderful new people, spent some time with some old friends and got in touch with some other old friends from years past. There was also some sadness, but all in all 2008 was good to me.
At years end, I, along with a great many people, find it a good time to assess the previous year and make new plans and hopes for the coming year. I try not to get to grandiose with the resolutions, though. I know my strengths – and my weaknesses – and the trick for me is to strike the right balance. I mean, sure, I’d love to become addicted to running, but I know that’s not terribly likely to happen, so I’m not going to set myself up for failure on that one. Someday maybe I’ll surprise myself there….maybe.
Personally, I would like to improve my photography skills and to that end I am going to make an effort to find at least one interesting thing/person/situation per week to photograph. I’m actually stealing this resolution from my friend Ian (Thanks Ian!). Also, I would like to take a bit more advantage of some of the things that the Washington DC area has to offer. I’ve never really seen any of the monuments (I know…) so I’m going to make a point of finally getting around to that in the spring and summer.
I am also hopeful that the new President will bring hope and change to our country. January 20th will be a happy day. I hope that the economy improves in 2009 and people that lost their jobs in 2008 find gainful, enjoyable employment.
I hope your 2009 brings you happiness, prosperity and health. Oh, and fun, too. 
Happy New Year!
Edited to add some links.
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- Comments(5)
Jewel,
Wishing you the same, but especially the fun part.
My wife got me a new digital camera for Newtonmas, and I definitely want to ramp up my understanding of digital photography. I did a lot of photography long ago, and even did darkroom work, but never made the effort to master my previous digital camera.
Also want to do more birding in the year ahead, and expand on my baking.
Your comment about running reminded me of this Speed Bump…
http://www.creators.com/comics/speed-bump/27257.html
Happy 2009!
Alan
That’s a funny cartoon — thanks for the link!
New camera’s can be a lot of fun! I know that I have gotten a lot of enjoyment out my Rebel XT in the 3 1/2 years I’ve had it. It was only a year ago that I decided that I would really like to learn how to really use it, though. I took a couple photography classes last spring and I’ve subscribed to a pretty good digital photography newsletter and I’ve acquired a few books as well for reference. The important part is practice, of course.
I’ve also recently taken up a bit of baking using Splenda and with some excellent results, too.
You’re welcome. Speed Bump often appeals to my sense of humor.
Long ago, I learned I don’t like carrying lots of lenses around, so I put the PowerShot SX10 IS as the one item on my wish list. Several folks were pushing me toward the XSi, but I think a “crossover” camera will keep me busy and happy for a while. It does allow full manual control. If it works out, then I’ll think about a DSLR. They’ll be more bang for the buck by then anyway.
Thanks for the link. There is some good stuff there.
Clear skies, Alan
Yay! I hope 2009 is a great year for all involved. While 2008 was not a good year in many respects (I lost two kitties and my father), it was a great year in other respects (especially with regards to my musical and artistic endeavors), and I made a LOT of great new friends, present company included!
– Brett
Brett — I knew about the kitties, which is sad enough, but I’m sorry to hear you lost your father too. My dad died when I was 11.
Alan — The PowerShot is a fine camera and I’m sure it will serve you well. Eventually you might want the flexibility of a DSLR — but, it all depends on what you do. For much of what I have done, the Powershot would have performed fabulously. Once you outgrow it, you’ll definitely have a lot more to choose from than you have now. I’ve got my eye on the Canon 50D, presently.