i'm a retired teacher. i've always loved taking pictures and am now trying to take photographs rather than snapshots and more alive and interesting pictures. i'm a total amateur and mechanically challenged! I USE A SIMPLE SONY DIGITAL POINT AND SHOOT. i'm thinking of getting a canon g11 or olympus pen e-pl1, but afraid i won't be able to learn to use it more than an automatic point and shoot.

i've taken a couple of photography courses here and there.

i love scenic shots, people, flowers, and now more odd things that seem artsy.

UPDATE...so now that i've been a member for a few months i've made some great flickr friends who always make me feel good with their thoughtful and flattering comments. thank you mike, erin, john and vicki. i love seeing photos from your parts of the world and you all are such amazing photographers. also, a shout out to frida, jasmine, libby, rosetta/renato, irina, amanda, i'm at peace (name?) and elshowk(name?). thank you all so very much for liking my photos. it's very much appreciated.

i've joined way too many groups being so eager to get feedback on my photos. i would appreciate anyone who comments on one of my photos that was seen in a group, to PLEASE mention the group, so i can start eliminating some where people aren't seeing (or liking, lol) them.

and to all the photographers whose work i've viewed, thank you for the many hours of pure pleasure seeing such gorgeous photographs and getting to see so many parts of the world.

flickr (and picnik) has enhanced my life sooo much!

PS...the dates are not correct from my camera. i had never set the correct date and time. it is now set, so any future photos will have the correct date. duh!