As a child, I loved my books. They were my escape, as I suspect is the case for many Baby Boomers. I especially loved the older books, the ones I'd find abandoned in the old buildings in which I played, or at the back of creaky book shelves, layered in years of dust. My favorites had illustrations on separate glossy pages. Remember? The colors were always so rich, so dark, and so inviting. So unnatural, but so exotic, and so devastatingly beautiful. Their allure and appeal was like that of the most skilled siren. I would trail my fingers across the image, and I would dream. And travel to any place I wanted to be. I would be swept away into a world much nicer than my own. If only for a moment. That probably accounts for my wanderlust today. Some of you might recognize this image as a view towards the University of Glasgow, in Scotland. Flickr friend, Shuggie, kindly escorted my husband and I around the university area, during our recent visit to Glasgow. I saw an abundance of lovely photo ops, and cashed in on many, but the instant I saw this vista, I knew it was my vision. Albeit, with a little help from my PP program (post-processing - I use Digital Pro for Canon cameras.) Because Glasgow is so old, and the university is resplendent with a handsome and regal charm, I wanted the colors of this image to emulate the old pictures that I once so loved in my musty books. I am relying on a memory that is a half century old, but I think I got the essence of what romanced me, so many years ago. I think I have accomplished my goal, because I can feel my mind slipping away, and it is good . . . I hope you enjoy this, too. Blessings, Sheree (Special thanks, once again, to Karl (Shuggie) who made my first visit to Scotland, so memorable.)

ODC2 - In a row 14/06/11 A horrible day here today, it's raining and it's freezing. It doesn't really inspire me all that much. Also I think I might have to get my camera cleaned, cos it doesn't seem to focus properly and that's bugging me.lol I'm looking for some constructive feedback, good or bad 8) I really want to improve my photography. Thank you!