Seven & Eight

Whoops - a little behind here. 

Week 7 of the LensProToGo.com 'Project 52' photo challenge was Light.  I wanted to steer clear of the typical candle in the darkness, or sunrise over the river kind of triteness. I was heading down Highway 3 in Massachusetts one day when a construction sign caught my eye. As much because of what wasn't lit, as what was.  

I pulled over on into the shoulder, kids and all, and started snapping pictures. I'm not 100% happy with the end result (that silly arrow in the bottom both blocks my view, and seems a little redundant given the GIANT FLASHING LIGHTS, don't you think?). I took this picture through my windsheild, and ended up over-processing it, to make it less flat but, well, whew... it's done. 

Week 8: "Laughter"

I had a couple of ideas (which I may still come back to) to put together for this one. But of all the pictures we've ever taken, this one says 'laughter' better than any other. 

This one, I'm happy with. 

This one will be shown one day at her wedding.  That's my little girl. 

6:52 - Jailhouse Rock

I started my morning at the Middlesex County jail.

I had to drive up further than I had planed, as I couldn't get this shot from the road.

I realized I had left my SD card at home, and only had my iPhone to take picture with.

The guard who came over as I was squatting in the driveway was remarkably reasonable.

"What exactly are you doing?"

"There's this project. And my assignment this week is 'song or movie title' - get it? "Jailhouse Rock!" Aren't I clever? Isn't that a great idea?! You may admire my genius now."

"..."

"..."

"Sir, you need to get in your car and leave now."

Things which should be read

1. On the writing of Thank You notes by Leslie Harpold (via mightygirl.com) 

I’m not going to go all Miss Manners on your ass and get into the social intricacies and delicate situations that surround thank-you note writing, as I was taught that a solid thank-you note will transcend all complicated situations—and I have seen no evidence to the contrary.

2. Want to know what's going to be in that iPad 3? via CIO.com

A prettier display, and a little bit faster, but it's probably still not going to have a hologram.  However, the better lesson is this: 

I don't think [Apple competitors] understand how loyal it makes people when Apple continually pushes out improved functionality to their existing customers.

I hadn't really thought about it before I read it, but there is a shockingly obvious difference between how Apple treats its customers (making them brand enthusiasts) and how, say, Samsung does. Interestingly, Amazon has continuously tried to help people use its online sales channel, but not its physical (kindle) one. Probably indicating a separation between the product teams internally. And so sputters along another "iPad killer"

3. Speaking of cool ways to treat people - Thinking well outside the box on how to help people use your product...

4. Valentine inspiration (Etsy shop)