My Bags Are Packed - So Ready To Go - (enlarge)

Alas, I'm only daydreaming. But we all must have 'dreams' from time

to time. Dreaming of just flying to far off places, ones that I visited so

long ago. The years pass so fast, yet those memories stay fresh in

my mind. Young, and ready to discover a whole new world. The

lovely streets of Paris at night. Lights danced from the cars that sped

by and the beautiful shops that lined the street just outside of

the "Paris Meridian' where we stayed. An intimate dinner in an old

Bistro, seranaded by a handsome young man playing the guitar.

Watercress salad, lamb and fresh green beans and almonds then

field strawberries in real cream. My first sleep in a Feather Bed and

Down Duvet at the Hotel Lido, in Geneva. It was quaint but lovely to

me. Then my favorite, discovering what I could of Rome in a few

short days. I had never had such wonderful meals in my life. We

spent hours just eating, drinking, and celebrating life. Images of

ancient ruins and sunny afternoons enhaling the romance and

history that was this city, swirled in my head as I drifted off to sleep in

my small room at the Hotel President Roma. I told myself that if I

was ever to go back, it would be with someone I loved. It was a

Business trip with my employer and his wife, but he was so kind to

buy me a Kodak Instamatic Camera so that I would have a few

memories. Every March we get spoiled with a few warmer days

before we get another snowfall. A short break from the Cabin Fever

and cold temps has caused me to 'pause and dream', remembering

a week in April so long ago. (any visits and comments are always

welcome, sincere thanks, Gail)

April 10, 1973

Hi Gail,

  Wow....beautiful creative work of art.  Take care, Patsy

Many thanks for that lovely compliment Patsy. On the 9th of May last year, it was a rather miserable day. Mike Palermiti is very kind in giving me encouragement on things to do to increase my skills with my Camera and lenses, especially my Macro as it is my Favorite. On days like that I often set up a few things for 'still life'. I wanted to practice with my Tripod. I did not want to use the onboard flash, so I counted on daylight coming through the window, and lights in the room. This particular shot was far too saturated. I decided to try some cross-colour, focus stacking and layers. I am a bit more encouraged as now I have a used Flash that my Dad found quite reasonable online. We have a site called Kijiji here in Ontario. You can post an Ad for pretty well anything for Free, and quite often there are good deals on Cameras and Accessories. I decided to buy the Flash as I do a lot of images of my Grandchildren, and also want to use it for Still Life shots. Hopefully I will improve in these areas. Every Spring I think of my time in Paris. The Spring Bulbs were in full bloom and the temps were beautiful. All the talk of Spring Break and everyone heading South has got my mind on travelling. Going to these places with my husband Jim would be wonderful. Now that I enjoy Photography so much I am sure I'd never put my Camera down!

Fantastic work Gail!!!!!

My sincere thanks Jack, glad you enjoyed this composition.

sincere regards, Gail

Hello my friend so far away, I hope this finds you fine!! I have been enjoying your 'ship series' so much, but I always do. talk soon, Gail

As I look at your wonderful still life photo Gail I could see your sentimental longing for the past. These elements that you have included must have brought back happy memories. Best regards!

It really dreamy post processing and presentation!

It's allways good to still be able to dream.  "Dreams, Hope and Faith" goes hand in hand (for me that is), and once you loose the ability to dream, nothing seems worth while...

A beautiful dreamy picture with all the right elements.  Great work as allways.

Kind regards,

Engela

Like usual a great and clever composition, my dear friend!

April 10, 1973? May be in that day I also was there!!! Ahahah!!! Ciao, Maurizio.

Hi Gail,

I remain proud of you, using the Canon 100mm F/2.8 macro at F/2.8.

You are a fine student.

Exquisite results my dear friend.

Warmest Regards, Mike

Gail,

Although a "busy" still life image, I really like the story it tells and especially the "Clipper style" aircraft whisping you away to unknown destinations!

Regards always,

Jim j.

Yes it is busy, and rather feminine, but love to experiement. Many thanks for your visit Jim.

Kind praise from you Mike, always appreciated.

You know, I have often wondered that myself!!! We could have even passed on the street!!!!

I agree with how you think. Without dreams, I think the possibilities of the mind decrease. How dull life would be. Sincere thanks for your kind remarks that encourage me so.

Yes, there is a sentimental longing for the special moments in my past, times when I was the most happiest, they are memories that stay alive and I find comfort and hope in them. Especially the memories tied to this one, make me very thankful for the opportunities I had as a young woman. I had never travelled far at this time, this was my first time flying, actually so many firsts that changed the way I see life. Many thanks Lester, you too I think have your sentimental side, that is why you understand.

Sincere thanks for your very kind words of critique, so appreciate your visit and support.

Excellent post processing as usual! 

Thanking you for your very kind critique and support. Talk soon, Gail

wonderful presentation, full of sparkle and joy. love the tones.

So glad you enjoyed this composition Ranga!!