Every now and then I find myself alone in places I love to explore.  Recently, that place was Charleston. 

I had an evening mostly to myself, after dinner with some friends, and knew I wanted to explore a great spot I had mapped out for what I hoped would be a great view of an historic landmark.  The camera gear was ready.  The tripod was stowed in the trunk.  I even had on multiple layers to combat the cold and the inevitable windy conditions.

Alas, no access after dark.  Which really frustrates me, but gives me a good reason to get there earlier next time.

So, I did what I usually do - I improvised.  And found another location.  Which, in a city with a harbor mingling with the confluence of two rivers, makes successful photographic improvisation somewhat of a challenge.

There are, from what I can gather, two excellent vantage points to capture the shot I want to get.  So, I settled.  But, I got a nice surprise when I turned around and looked the other direction.  I like happy accidents like that one and I've learned enough over the years that sometimes when the shot you want and can't make is so very close but just not there that it behooves you to simply look around for a different perspective or background or, at times, subject.

And, I am quite pleased with the second subject.

I have plans to make a series and one of the shots I've dreamed of since I first saw the design was a little different from any others I've seen to date.  So, without further ado . . .

Ravenel Bridge I

The Happy Accident

And then there's this one:

Ravenel Bridge II

I was asked a few weeks ago if I was going to leave my family to go to Ecuador for this trip.

It was a great question, and I would not have even considered doing so 10 years ago.  Probably not even 5 years ago.

Today, my boys are young men - capable of caring for their Mom & sister; capable of fixing almost everything around the house that breaks; wise enough to call others for help when they need it; strong enough to protect what God has entrusted all of us with; and tender-hearted enough to do all of the above with love and compassion.

I trust that God has equipped my family with the resources, and most importantly, the grace, to be cared for in my absence.

The young men pictured here are not so young.

They have grown into Godly men.

Who still don't like for me to take their picture:

I'm headed to Ecuador for a construction based mission trip in just a few days.  Our trip will include upgrading the building where Iglesia Bautista de Montalvo meets; working with the members of that local body; praying with those members to reach the surrounding communities of Cevallos and Quero; and working side-by-side with men with whom I work daily in my FT profession.

If we have internet access, I will be updating with pictures on a daily basis, beginning Saturday, April 14th. 

I appreciate your thoughts, prayers, and overall support.

Raymond