Stepping Out - (enlarge plse)

I took this image in June of 2009. The Original Image had a lot of

dead and untidy leaves in the background. I got very frustrated

trying to edit it and almost gave up. But it is the only capture of my

first and only (to date) White Clematis. I persevered, and though I

was not able to edit it 'simply' due to the distracting elements, I have

an image that I can use for a Card for a very dear friend who is not

well. She is in her 80's; I've known her for 37 years, and it does not

matter if I speak to her tomorrow or 2 years from now, she is the type

of friend who just picks up from where you both left off. She is a very

selfless woman, always doing for others, and no matter how ill she

feels, always takes the time to send me a card of encouragement, or

passes on a few verses she has read that she knows I will

appreciate. Not too many people in the world like that. I cherish

every moment she has on this earth, for I know I shall miss her

dearly one day. (many thanks for your visit, most sincerely, Gail)

Is a June flower in my garden,this one is so nice presented,delicate stamens all around ,clean white petals all look attractive,compliments for a piece of art.

Wonderful shot and I love the title! That first step is a big one though! Nice composition and the frame works very well!

Dear Gail, A lovely image and thought for your friend. She's as lucky to count you among her friends as you are to her. I like the shot very much and its tough to get the delicate texture of these white beauties but you've managed nicely. Take care and I'll say a prayer for your friend.

Warm Regards,

Holger

Really beautiful work with impressive lighting and details, Gail!

Gail,

  Wonderful image with beautiful processing.  I to am blessed to have a friend such as yours she will be 85 her upcoming birthday.  We are so blessed to have friends such as these & can learn so much from them.  I pray your friend feels better real soon.  Take care, Patsy

Excellent treatment , I particularly like the frame , you've made a great job of it ! You were lucky to find such a perfect specimen without any bug nibbles ! Bill

Great textures on the flower and the frame.  Perfectly framed.  Great work!

Gail, you done a fine job with this one. I really like the delicate detail and colours that come through. The story behind it is also very interesting to read.  Congratulations!

very beautiful,congrats

Beautiful work of art. I love it.

Nice composition. Nice color. Best Regards,

Excellent work! 6

Many thanks Maurizio for dropping by and sharing your thoughts with me. Always a pleasure to hear from you.

Warmest regards, Gail

Thankyou for dropping by and sharing your imput on this composition. Glad to hear it was to your liking. I do appreciate your time and of course the encouragement is inspiring.

Warmest regards,Gail

Always a pleasure to hear from you Mehmet. I appreciate when you like an image such as this as your work is so excellent, but also very different. One day I hope to be as proficient in Portraiture as you are dear Mehmet.

Warmest regards, Gail

It is so good to hear from you Garry. I do appreciate your input and I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed this composition. I see by your Portfolio that you have visited California recently, I hope you had a good trip. Dad mentioned you had a daughter living down there?

Sincere regards, Gail

I do appreciate your input Jim, I was not too sure about the frame at first, but as I worked on it I began to like it more. Many thanks for your time and encouragement.

Warmest regards, Gail

Beautifully presented. Excllent clarity and composition.

Thank you for the comments on my sunset shots. You are right, I am very lucky to live in such a lovely place. I have been here for almost thirty years now, but I will never take it for granted. I walk my dogs on the beach each morning and, I swear, the colours have never been the same twice!

Lovely work again Gail. My first reaction was that the frame didn't work, but after a few seconds I saw that it did and lends a richness in color and texture that complements the flower well. It's nice too.

creatività e luce,ottimo risultato !

saluti paul

Grazie, amico mio !!!!! :-) sincerely, Gail

Many thanks Chuck for your visit and it is always good to hear your input. I admire the versitility and range of your talents and work. You inspire and encourage.

With much appreciaiton, Gail

Thankyou for those kind words of critique. Yes, truly, I cannot imagine living in such a beautiful setting every day!!! While I enjoy the 'Canadian Experience' and we do have places that are unlike any other in our Country, the warm climates always have a draw for those of us who appreciate the luxury of a 'break' from the Canadian winter.

Your sunsets are lovely, warmest regards, Gail

You are truly 'spot on'!!! the moment I saw this 'bloom' I knew that I couldn't have happened upon it at a 'better time'. We do have a lot of little 'critters' seen and unseen that love to devour our lovely flowers. I am so happy you liked this composition Bill.

Sincere regards, Gail