The desire to pick up my camera and go.

Mobile, AL mission trip summer 2009

      Lately, I've been working on starting my life as a photographer. This has proven to have many challenges such as my parents' worry that it won't be a solid enough career in this economy (a very valid worry that led to my choice for a nutrition major) and a lack of money. I have decided recently to transfer to the University of Tennessee Chattanooga which has my current major BUT also has a photography program that I know need to decide if I'm going to double major or add as a minor...I know, people usually just look at your portfolio but I would like to have some sort of certification just to show that I know what I'm doing :) So, that has been an exciting advancement.
      On another note, I have been wanting to take my camera and travel. I have been thinking a lot about going on a mission trip to somewhere like China, India, Africa, anywhere that I need a passport to go. I just want to grab my camera and leave. Leave the safety of my regular life and go DO something. Unfortunately, money has been a factor in that and my lack of time. My friend recently decided to go back to China (she went last year, also) with a organization called Visiting Orphans (www.visitingorphans.org) and love on the children there. Another friend went to Thailand last summer and is going back this year with another friend of ours (who went to Guatemala last summer) to do mission work. All of these girls have sparked my desire even more. This is something I would love to do. To capture moments of compassion and to be able to give it as well. To help someone with my art and to spread the word about what is going on in other parts of the world. My church goes on mission trips every summer and I have been participating in those for several years, but I feel the need to go somewhere outside of the United States. I know there is plenty of mission work to be done here, but going to another country where you are not necessarily comfortable is an experience I think everyone should have if they want that. I want that experience. So, next summer I am determined to go. I am going to start fundraising soon and will probably start posting some of my prints online to sell, so keep an eye out. :)