This is that time of year when we seem to be stuck in the winter doldrums and I want to leap ahead towards spring and summer. So, this week’s photo theme is right on target. I’m very happy to indulge in some wishful thinking about the future.
Early Spring Tulips
Never make predictions, especially about the future.~Casey Stengel

Early Spring Tulips. Shot with a Canon 70D.
I picked up these exquisite tulips in the grocery store last week, because I was yearning for spring. But in the past week, we’ve had several snow storms and temperatures are still below freezing. I hear that warm weather is coming next week. Here’s hoping…
There is always one moment in childhood when the door opens and lets the future in.~Graham Greene

La Quinceanera. Shot with a Canon 70D.
Last weekend in Chicago, we saw this beautiful young woman celebrating La Quinceañera, a celebration honoring her on her 15th (quince in Spanish) birthday. This is a joyous occasion in the Mexican culture, marking a girl’s transition to adulthood. Her brother told me that although she is already 16, she wanted the traditional mass, followed by a party.
“A large party?” I asked.
He shrugged. “Not too big. Around 300 people.”
Running Towards Spring
It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves.~William Shakespeare

Shot at the Gerald Ford Museum, Grand Rapids, with a Canon 70D with a Topaz Oil Painting Filter
It takes courage and forward thinking to go for a run wearing shorts and a tee shirt in March when there is still snow on the ground. If you look closely, you’ll see that I applied an oil painting filter to this shot, to boost its color and texture.
From Seed to Flower
If you think in terms of a year, plant a seed; if in terms of ten years, plant trees; if in terms of 100 years, teach the people.~Confucius

Seed Pods. Holland State Park. Shot with a Canon 70D
If you look closely at these seed pods captured during a walk in the fall at Holland State Park, you might see the promise of summer heat and sunshine.
The Piano Lesson at Lincoln Center
I don’t know what the future may hold, but I know who holds the future.~Ralph Abernathy

The Piano Lesson. Lincoln Center, New York. Shot with a Canon 40D.
The delight on this little girl’s face makes me think there are piano lessons in her future.
And speaking of the future, I hope that you keep your faith in mankind, and our ability to tackle and solve some of the challenges we face–both locally and globally. As the sun and warmth return to your part of the world, I hope it gives you renewed faith in yourself and others. And finally, have a great week, everyone!
Categories: Photography
These are very good pictures
LikeLike
Hi Rajiv. Thanks!! It’s great to get your feedback on them. It helps a lot.
LikeLike
Wonderful post, Patti. Great shots with the finale of the piano-playing baby! Your quote choices really made me smile, too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Jane. The baby’s expression is irresistable, isn’t it? So glad this post made you smile.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a beautiful post Patti! So optimistic !
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi! I am optimistic by nature, even though it’s challenging at times. I am so glad you found my post is uplifting!
LikeLiked by 1 person
300 people!!! Oh my. My son is planning is wedding for next year, and they are keeping it smaller at around 85, but to all of us big would be 150! Beautiful photos, Patti.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Luanne. Yes, 300. He shrugged like it was a small number. A friend of mine from Syria had 500 at her wedding. Like you, I think any number close to 100 is large enough! Congratulations too on your son’s wedding.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much! We are excited. It looks like a ceremony on the beach!
LikeLiked by 1 person
In California? That sounds lovely. What a perfect place to celebrate. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, Laguna Beach :).
LikeLiked by 1 person
Perfect
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a lovely post Patti – enjoyed all of the quotes and photos but that shot of the little girl is really spectacular. Such joy!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks so much, Tina. That makes me feel good! That little girl is great, isn’t she? I’m so glad I captured that moment.
LikeLike
I love your choice on these ones, the tulips are beautiful, the oil painting filter effect looks so surreal, and the milkweed seeds are beautiful.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Maria for your thoughtful comments! I was delighted with the milkweed shot. It looks so delicate.
LikeLike