Something about me is I'm a nurturer. Dogs, cats, fish, kids, rabbits, turtles. Had them all. Currently my two kids and I have a rescued greyhound who will be ten in June and is a retired racer. We've had Phoenix for six years and I love him as much as I love my kids. We also have a "rescued" cat, Raleigh, for nine years. He's about ten as well and of course he's the light of my life too. Raleigh found us. The funny thing about both of them is they look like brothers! They have the same coloring. Currently, we have a school of goldfish as well. There's Stanley, Dory, Fido, and BillyBob.
By being a nurturer, naturally I'm very drawn to this class. I get to photograph the animals at the shelter so they can find good and loving homes as well, without me having to personally take them home. I would if I could, but we're busting at the seems at our house as it is! It's nice to know there are ways I can help without having to adopt each and everyone personally. And of course, if I did that, the police might come and put me away for Animal Neglect or something, LOL.
I have one thing I'm a little intimidated by. I learned about the disease that is in the shelter. The story reminded me of when I used to work in hospitals. The goal of a hospital is to get you out as quickly as possible so you don't come down with an infectious disease. It's the nature of the beast. But I'm afraid I might bring a disease home to my animals. Like the time I went to the Emergency Room with my daughter because I got dishwasher detergent in my eye: my daughter caught pneumonia while we waited in the waiting room. I know that there are precautions in place, so you know I will be following them to the letter. But still, one cannot help but wonder what the chances are that I could bring home a disease like distemper.
This is also the first time I'll actually be sharing my photos with the public. That's scary. It's a leap of faith for me. I'm no longer saying "I think I can;" I'm actually doing it. Sink or swim, right?
This is not my first online course. And I have to say I haven't had the most positive experience with online courses in the past. I found I was teaching myself everything and that's a lot of responsibility. It took me three times longer to learn online than in a classroom, so I've shied away from online classes. This one seems a little less challenging in that I've already had Prof. Johnstone. She's already taught me how to use Photoshop. I'm not an expert by any means, as a matter of fact, I would still call myself a novice. But it is my hope that by the time I graduate Meredith, I have mastered Photoshop and have a good online following with my blog and photographs.
The best thing is I get to combine my two favorite things: photography and writing. And I get to see where it leads me.
The picture is of my kids at Jones Beach, NY last year because I prefer to be behind the camera.
Karen, Great start, and welcome aboard! I am so glad you are in this class, and glad to hear Raleigh, Phoenix, Stanley, Dory, Fido, and Billy Bob have a great home with you.
ReplyDeleteIn terms of disease, I usually leave my shoes outside, and shower before I hang out with my critters at home. I have never had a problem. I hope this helps ease your mind.
I am sorry about your daughter getting sick! That is awful that she got sick in the waiting room of all places. This really brings to my attention that there are many diseases that can be spread in an animal shelter. I didn't really think of it that way in terms of spreading germs in an animal shelter in comparison to a hospital. I worked at a hospital too and this always concerned me, they made us get vaccinations to ensure that we do not catch any sickness. That is awesome that you are familiar with Photoshop because that puts you at advantages! Good luck with this class! I am excited to see your work also!
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