Fall Beauty

2017 Governor's Prayer Breakfast

This morning, I had the honor of being one of the photographers at the 2017 Governor's Prayer Breakfast.  It was my first time shooting a big event, and I was a little nervous.  But thankfully I had some great partners, and most of the pictures I took turned out fairly well.

This was the centerpiece at the head table.  The wooden Indiana accent piece was made by someone from our church.

I designed the programs and sponsor insert for the event.

Here are the program participants assembled together before the breakfast began.

Matthew Barnes and Gov. Eric Holcomb

Gov. Holcomb and First Lady Janet Holcomb

A view from the second floor balcony.

The closing prayer

Here I am with Gabrielle Pokone (one of my partners) after rising at 4 a.m. and being on my feet for 3+ hours.  We both agreed we would sleep well tonight!  

The Indiana Statehouse

I admit I might be a little partial, but I believe we have one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the country.  Yesterday, Rachael and I took a friend downtown for a tour of our statehouse.  Since it was a weekend with hardly anyone there, it was the perfect opportunity to practice some artistic photography.

We also got a couple of outdoors shots:

Following the statehouse tour, we made our way over to the Indiana State Library known for its rare manuscripts.  When I spotted Garfield, Rachael couldn't resist a pose...

It was a beautiful fall day, so we walked along the canal for a bit and took a few more pictures.  

We shared a great morning and afternoon together!  

A Sharper Image and Country Rides

The joys of a new camera lens!  I recently purchased a new lens for my Nikon, and the results have been amazing!  The photographer in me is having great fun.

Another favorite past time this summer has been cycling with Dad and Rachael.  Just this past Monday, I discovered the amazing therapy of biking the countryside.  Rachael and I drove several miles north of Indianapolis to join a friend for an early morning ride.  It was so beautiful and peaceful!  As we passed the fields glistening underneath the sun's rays, my soul rejoiced in the beauty of God's handiwork.   We rode 9 miles that morning, though I could have easily continued on for a couple of hours more.  

Now the changing of the season is setting in.  I predict that it will be a gorgeous fall in the Midwest due to the wet weather this summer.  More reason to hop on the bike with camera in tow! :)

Spring Rain

I was out walking this evening right after a spring shower (or should I say deluge).  It was beautiful - the skies were beginning to clear and the sun setting between broken clouds.   As I passed our dogwood tree in full bloom, I couldn't but help notice the pink flowers graced with droplets of rain.  I dashed inside and grabbed my camera...and here are the results:

Our God's handiwork is beyond description!