Morning ~

It's different moving to a new city:

>You don't know anyone.

>You don't know where anything is.

>You've got to find new places to explore.

Adapting has been interesting, but all in a good way.

The other morning, while on my way to work, I drove past a park right on the shore of Lake Mendota. I drove past during sunrise time, and it was absolutely beautiful! I marked it on my "Places to come back and explore" list.

This morning, I decided to venture out and photograph at the spot I made note of.

Bundled up, camera in hand, walking over shear ice, and sinking in the snow, I made my way out to the edge about ten minutes before sunrise time. I noticed one other person walking around like I was; always being aware of my surroundings.

I found my spot to photograph. Great view over the frozen lake!

I then heard a voice from a ways behind, "I'm coming from behind, I don't want to startle you". As the footsteps got closer I turned and looked. It was an old man, whose name I can't remember.

He came beside me, a few feet away, and saw my camera. Conversation began.

I had met my first local in the city.

I'm not sure what it is about people seeing my camera and instantly being interested in what I'm doing and who I am. But people are so incredibly nice, friendly, and honestly interested in what I do for a living. They share stories, give me information, and the result is a great conversation.

I treasure moments like this. Especially with older people because they have so much wisdom they are looking to share. Deciding to go out and photograph this morning was the best way to start my day. If I hadn't gone, I wouldn't have met that old man to hear his stories.

Have a Happy Friday Everyone!