So far, I’ve kept it up: taking at least one photo every day. Not every photo is worth sharing, but that’s not necessary. For me, it’s all about the challenge of getting my photography spark going again. If that results in a photo that really makes me happy, then that’s a bonus. Today was just such a day.

Geese in Formation

This morning I went into the garden with Skipper to feed the birds their daily portion. Standing on the driveway, I saw a group of geese flying across the field opposite our house. Their chatter filled the air and their formation was beautiful to see. A piece of nature so close to home — I enjoy that.

As a precaution, I brought my camera. I wanted to capture those flying geese, but that was easier said than done. The field is large, and to get the geese in any good frame I had to zoom in quite a bit. When you zoom in with a camera, you reduce the field of view, which means you can see a smaller part of your surroundings. Before I had even focused properly, the geese were gone again.

An Unexpected Guest

When I was about to give up hope, I saw movement in the bare branches of our chestnut tree out of the corner of my eye. A bird had landed there, and when I pointed my camera at the bird, I recognized it immediately: a great spotted woodpecker! That made me happy. Every winter, woodpeckers come to our garden, and I have discovered that they are very grateful, but also sociable birds.

The great spotted woodpecker has a striking appearance with its black and white feathers and bright red underbelly. They mainly eat insects, but in winter they also feast on seeds and nuts. The sound they make is a recognizable 'kik-kik' and their drumming behavior on trees is actually their way of communicating. Capturing such a bird always feels like a little gift.

Time for Creativity

After my woodpecker moment, it was time to play with Skipper for a while. Then I went back inside to continue working on my next pyrography project. On the work table are some beautiful wooden discs ready. This time I want to burn an image that means a lot to me, but that will also test my technical skills: my own Rowan.

Yes, I am taking on the challenge of burning my white German Shepherd on wood. It is exciting because the white of his coat requires subtle shading techniques. How it will turn out? I don't know yet, but I promise to share the result when it is finished.

Why All This?

Taking a photo every day and working on something creative keeps me sharp and gives me energy. It is those small moments — a group of geese, a woodpecker in the tree, and then a bit of creativity and rekindling memories by immortalizing Rowan on wood — that color my days. And that is exactly what I need to get through this winter time and keep that spark alive.